Posttermination Friendship Between Counselors and Clients

This study examined counselors' behaviors and attitudes regarding friendships and sexual relationships with former clients. A random sample of 96 members of the American Mental Health Counselors Association responded to our survey. Although a minority of counselors (33%) believed that posttermination sexual relationships might be acceptable 5 years after termination, only 4% admitted to engaging in such relationships. In contrast, 70% of the counselors believed that posttermination friendships were acceptable 2 years (on average) after termination and 33% acknowledged that they had engaged in such friendships. Potential harm to the client was the most important concern expressed by the counselors. Ethical and research implications are discussed.