Discusses the Supreme Court's 1996 decision in "Jaffee v. Redmond" and its importance for the social work profession. Maintains that the Court's establishment of a psychotherapy privilege acknowledges the importance of confidentiality in the psychotherapeutic relationship. (GCP)

Surveyed social workers in Texas to determine (1) if they treat those who have been sexually exploited by psychotherapists and (2) if they are aware of recent state legislation regarding this issue. Results show that Texas social workers do work with victims of sexual exploitation and that education for social workers concerning the legislation is…

Addresses concept of the therapeutic contract in clinical social work and psychotherapy. Defines "contract," describing legal implications, and implications for the professional relationship and course of treatment. Discusses mutuality, penalty clauses, voluntary participation in contractual process, malpractice and professional negligence,…

Notes that many clinicians are under pressure to find ever-briefer forms of treatment for all clients, regardless of individual's symptoms or circumstances. Presents supportive gesture for social work practitioners who are struggling with questions about long-term treatment. Discusses health care trends and contraindications for short-term…

Examines the nature of the subjective experience of schizophrenic individuals (N=54) during symptom-fluctuation episodes, what the individuals perceived as the most important symptom fluctuations during those episodes, and what the individuals perceived as causing the fluctuations. The findings suggest that mental-health professionals should be…

Examines the traditional concept of confidentiality juxtaposed with newer developments in theory and practice. Proposes guidelines for a more workable definition of confidentiality that reinforces the role of social workers in dealing with people in their environments. (Author)