Is it considered unethical if a friend asks a therapist to treat their niece?

Treating a friend’s relative, such as a niece, can lead to a conflict of interest, making it an unethical situation for the therapist. The fundamental ethical principle here revolves around the therapist's ability to maintain objectivity and provide unbiased care. When a therapist enters a relationship with someone who is connected to a friend, the dual relationship can complicate clinical judgment, potentially compromising the therapist's professional integrity and the quality of the treatment.

In this context, the therapist's role requires them to establish boundaries that safeguard the therapeutic relationship and the welfare of the client. Engaging in treatment with a family member of a friend may predispose the therapist to avoid confronting issues or to become overly involved, as personal feelings and relationships can interfere with professional duties.

This choice emphasizes the importance of clear professional boundaries in the therapy setting to prevent conflicts of interest and ensure that the therapist can act solely in the best interests of the client.