Dear Doc
Dear _____,
I have recently started seeing clients in a private practice. I have seen most of my clients for about a year, and we have developed very positive counselor-client relationships. With the holidays approaching, several clients have given me small gifts, in gratitude for the work we have done together for the past year. I am proud of all of my clients' hard work and would like to give each of them a small gift in return, to let them know that I am thinking about them during the holidays. Is this an acceptable action on my part? It pains me not to return their kind gestures.
Signed,
Gift-Giving Counselor
Dear Gift-Giving Counselor
What a predicament! As counselors, we are naturally caring people, and we want to show our care and concern. Etiquette might say that it is perfectly appropriate to exchange gifts, but as counselors we must consult the ACA Code of Ethics. Prior to the 2005 Code of Ethics, counselors could not accept any gifts from their clients. Accepting gifts was considered unethical because the gift giving could shift the relationship from counselor-client, to more of a friendship (dual relationship) or contribute to the power differential between client and counselor. In the 2005 Code, Standard A.10.e., Receiving Gifts, states that "counselors understand the challenges of accepting gifts from clients and recognize that in some cultures, small gifts are a token of respect and showing gratitude. When determining whether or not to accept a gift from clients, counselors take into account the therapeutic relationship, the monetary value of the gift, a client's motivation for giving the gift, and the counselor's motivation for wanting or declining the gift." So, if you believe the gift from your client fits this description, it is OK to accept the gift. The Code does not mention anything specifically about gift giving, and would probably fall under the danger of building non-professional dual relationships. It is a gesture to shy away from. A kind word from you acknowledging the thoughtful, small gift and wishing him the best during the holidays will let your client know you care.