This article examines a number of key legal and ethical issues which are a part of everyday clinical practice and discusses the importance of developing good practice habits in order to avoid disciplinary actions, lawsuits, and ethics complaints.

In the January/February 2014 issue of The Therapist, members were invited to analyze two clinical vignettes and provide a written response to several questions posed concerning the application of legal and ethical standards to each scenario. Read the responses submitted by Kathleen Wexler, LMFT and Joanne Silva, LMFT.

This article provides an overview of the use of arbitration agreements by therapists as an alternative to litigation. In addition to pointing out the specific legal requirements for the use of an arbitration agreement, the article offers a discussion of the potential benefits and drawbacks that are generally associated with the use of arbitration by health care professionals.

A  Closer Look at the Elder Abuse and Dependent Adult Civil Protection Act.

A number of members who work with insurance plans have received a “notice of overpayment” in the mail from some insurance plans, requesting reimbursement for specified “overpayments” made to the provider for claims filed during 2013. Providers who receive such notices must decide whether to repay the amount requested, or, to file a written objection with the plan within 30 days of receipt of the notice. This article will provide an overview of the issues involved, including requirements and procedures that apply in responding to these notices.

Clinical supervisors play an important role in the training of every therapist. This article emphasizes the need for supervisors to be familiar with the laws, regulations, and ethical standards which govern the conduct of supervisors and supervisees.

By Michael Griffin, JD, LCSW, Staff Attorney; Learn how the therapist's opinion, regardless of whether it is documented in a report, expressed on the witness stand, or written in a letter, can have a powerful impact on the person's life.

CAMFT membership surveys consistently reflect the availability of CAMFT legal staff for telephone consultation regarding legal, ethical, and licensure concerns as one of the most highly valued benefits of CAMFT membership.

This article will review the section of law that requires there to be a written agreement between schools and work settings for the hours of experience gained by trainees outside of their practicum assignments.

Marital Therapy Vignette -  Vignette Discussion to “Treating Couples: Identifying and Managing Legal & Ethical Issues