Commentary: two sides to every story--the need for objectivity and evidence.
Dr. Thomas Gutheil, in his article, "Boundaries, Blackmail, and Double Binds: A Pattern Observed in Malpractice Consultation," provides readers with some important and useful recommendations regarding the avoidance of real or perceived boundary violations and how to avoid the pitfalls of difficult therapy. However, in doing so, he moved away from the usual even-handedness and objectivity that characterizes his work. Forensic mental health professionals rely on evidence, and always wait until they have carefully considered both (or all) relevant sides of an issue before rendering an opinion.
Dvoskin
Joel A
JA
University of Arizona College of Medicine, Tucson, USA. joelthed@aol.com
D005555:Forensic Psychiatry / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*; D006801:Humans; D008318:Malpractice / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*; D011369:Professional-Patient Relations; D011613:Psychotherapy / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*; D012017:Referral and Consultation / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*