A major debate for counselors or psychologists concerns the costs and benefits of a dual or multiple relationship between the clinician and a client. A multiple relationship can occur when a clinician occupies a professional role in addition to another role with the same person outside of the professional setting (APA, 2002). Two additional primary types of relationships in which a clinician may be involved with one or more individuals are sexual or non-sexual relationships. It is ethically wrong to have a sexual relationship with a current client, student, supervisee, etc., leaving little room for debate. This leaves the debate open for therapists engaging in a non-sexual relationship with current individuals for whom they hold a current professional position. The following will discuss the positives and negatives of engaging in a multiple relationship as well as current professional recommendations. Positives Whether in a classroom or in therapy sessions, historically, a dual or multiple relationship in the mental health field has been considered bad. However, certain communities or contexts may make it difficult to avoid multiple relationships. These settings may be small communities such as lesbian/gay/bisexual/transgender (LGBT), specific religions, military, graduate programs, or rural towns. In these specific contexts, avoiding a multiple relationship would almost mean blocking out the world around it. Therefore, in some circumstances, avoiding these relationships may actually undermine healthy professional interaction (Ryder & Hepworth, 1990). For example, a child who has been in therapy may ask their therapist to attend their graduation or important event......middle of an article......ip and type of activities that this new relationship will entail (Burian & Slimp, 2000). Once decided to enter a dual or multiple relationship, the therapist must obtain informed consent that includes defined boundaries, confidentiality, and privacy for both parties involved (Schank, Helbrok, Haldeman, & Gallardo, 2010). The therapist should also have points of contact to discuss ongoing relationships and review relationships. Being trained on how to manage multiple relationships can also benefit both parties involved. In conclusion, there are two different perspectives on multiple relationships in mental health. Some believe that these relationships should be avoided at all costs, while others believe that certain circumstances are acceptable. Overall, when engaging in a multiple relationship, one must be extremely careful to protect their client and themselves..