US psychologists explore relational ethics for couples therapy, challenging individual-centred approaches. These courses offer a new ethical perspective.
Traditional psychotherapy ethics focus on individual autonomy, rights and independence, an approach that can fall short in couples therapy. This course guides US therapists from bioethical principles toward a relational ethics framework rooted in Martin Buber, feminist theory, systems thinking and care ethics. It examines confidentiality between partners, power dynamics, cultural and contextual influences, and informed consent within a dyadic context. By treating the relationship itself as the client, therapists are encouraged to center shared accountability and fairness in ethical decision-making. It is the first of two parts on working with couples.
Traditional ethical frameworks in psychotherapy often centre on individual autonomy, rights, and independence. However, in couples therapy—where interdependence, mutual responsibility, and relational dynamics are paramount—this individualised approach can fall short.
In this insightful talk, participants will explore the shift from bioethical principles to a relational ethics framework. Drawing on the works of Martin Buber, feminist theory, systems thinking, and care ethics, this talk examines how relational ethics offers a more fitting and compassionate ethical foundation for couples therapy.
Topics include managing confidentiality between partners, addressing power dynamics, cultural and contextual influences, and redefining informed consent within a dyadic context. By viewing the relationship itself as the "client," therapists are encouraged to centre shared accountability and fairness in their ethical decision-making.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this talk, participants will be able to:
Describe the limitations of traditional, individual-centred ethical paradigms in the context of couples therapy
Define the key principles of relational ethics and their theoretical foundations
Identify common ethical dilemmas in couples therapy and apply relational ethics in navigating them
Reframe therapeutic practice to centre the couple's relationship as the client