In the Therapeutic BDSM Collaborative Network, the integrity, clarity, and ethical accountability of all interactions are paramount. While the primary policy restricts clinicians from holding both the clinician and pro practitioner roles within the same client dynamic, we recognize that, under carefully defined circumstances, allowing clinicians to hold dual roles can bring added value to client care. This flexibility is offered with strict parameters to ensure that boundaries remain intact, client safety is prioritized, and ethical practices are upheld.

The following stipulations, time limits, and ethical guidelines must be observed when a clinician takes on dual roles:

Clear Role Distinction

Clinicians may not hold the clinician and pro practitioner roles simultaneously within a single client dynamic. Each role must remain distinct to prevent conflicts of interest, dual relationships, and boundary concerns. Clients must have a full understanding of the clinician’s capacity and responsibilities within each context, ensuring that these roles are clear and separate.

Informed Consent and Disclosure

Clients must be fully informed of any dual roles a clinician may hold, with clear disclosure of the clinician’s capacity in each context. Clinicians must obtain informed consent from clients for each role and provide opportunities for clients to express any concerns or reservations regarding the dual role structure.

Ethical Boundaries and Role-Specific Documentation

Clinicians who hold dual roles must adhere to stringent ethical boundaries and document sessions according to the specific role being performed (clinical vs. pro). Role-specific documentation helps prevent overlap, protect confidentiality, and maintain role clarity. Each role should have unique paperwork to uphold these boundaries.

Ongoing Supervision and Self-Assessment

Clinicians in dual roles are required to participate in regular supervision and complete self-assessment exercises to remain aware of potential bias, boundary concerns, and the emotional impact of maintaining dual roles. Supervision ensures clinicians are supported in managing complex boundaries and maintaining ethical clarity in all client interactions.

Client Feedback Mechanism

The network provides a confidential feedback mechanism that allows clients to share any questions, experiences, or concerns regarding the dual role structure. This feedback empowers clients and ensures they feel secure and supported.

Limitations on Dual Role Scope

To prevent boundary fatigue and role confusion, clinicians may serve dual roles for only a limited number of clients (e.g., one to two clients per quarter). Additionally, a balanced caseload ratio will be maintained, with at least 70% of clients falling outside the dual role structure. This ensures that clinicians are not overextended and that they have the bandwidth to maintain clarity and integrity in each role.

Time Limits on Switching Roles for the Same Client

When transitioning between roles with the same client, clinicians must observe a minimum interval of  one year before switching from a clinical to a pro role or vice versa. This time interval ensures a respectful separation between roles, provides the client with a fresh therapeutic framework, and reduces the risk of dependency.

1. Closure of Initial Role: Before taking on a new role with the same client, the initial therapeutic relationship must be formally closed, documented, and agreed upon by both parties.
2. Evaluation of Client Needs: An assessment session should take place before the role transition, evaluating the client’s readiness and ensuring the shift aligns with their therapeutic goals.
3. Ongoing Transparency and Client Consent: Following a role transition, clinicians are encouraged to conduct regular check-ins to assess the client’s comfort level, revisit consent, and address evolving expectations.

Triangulation Requirement Still Applies

If a clinician decides to hold the role of pro-practitioner for a client, they are required to work with an external clinician who will serve as part of a triangulation process. This clinician will support the client from a therapeutic standpoint and offer a separate, unbiased clinical presence. This triangulation structure is designed to ensure that the client continues to have access to therapeutic support distinct from their pro interactions, reinforcing ethical boundaries and client well-being.

By implementing these measures, the Therapeutic BDSM Collaborative Network supports a nuanced, client-centered approach to dual role practices that prioritizes ethical integrity, client autonomy, and the highest standards of therapeutic care. This framework allows clinicians to navigate dual roles with care, clarity, and a commitment to client well-being.