Lesson series

Ethics in Addiction Treatment: Boundaries, Confidentiality & Client Autonomy.

This self-paced training explores common ethical challenges encountered when working with individuals with substance use disorders. Through practical examples and case-based discussion, participants will examine how ethical responsibilities apply to real-world addiction treatment settings, where confidentiality, boundaries, client autonomy, and competing professional obligations can become especially complex.

The course addresses confidentiality protections, including considerations related to 42 CFR Part 2, informed consent and client self-determination, dual relationships and boundary concerns within recovery communities, and ethical decision-making when working with mandated clients or individuals experiencing impaired judgment. Participants will learn strategies for recognizing ethical dilemmas, evaluating competing responsibilities, and applying a structured decision-making process to clinical practice.

This course is currently being offered with no continuing education credit.

Course Lessons

Meet the instructor

Heidi Hill LCSW, LCDCIII, MAC

Heidi Hill is a licensed clinical social worker, addiction professional, clinical supervisor, and continuing education presenter with more than 20 years of experience in behavioral health. Her clinical and leadership experience includes substance use treatment, trauma, anxiety disorders, ethics, clinical supervision, and program development across outpatient, intensive outpatient, and partial hospitalization settings.

Heidi has extensive experience developing and delivering professional trainings for behavioral health clinicians and brings a practical, real-world approach to continuing education. Her trainings emphasize translating ethical standards, regulations, and clinical concepts into decisions providers can confidently apply in everyday practice.

She is the founder of Coastal Empire Continuing Education Institute and maintains a private clinical practice, Coastal Mind & Body

Patrick Jones - Course author

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