Webinar: Boundary Crossings and Boundary Violations: Avoiding the Slippery Slope (2 CE's - Professional Roles and Boundaries)

Time & Location September 10, 2026, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM zoom

Register here.

Register here.

Webinar summary:

A ride home in an unexpected snow storm, spontaneous self-disclosure, a small gift for a client who is graduating from college… not all boundary “crossings” are harmful, unethical, or illegal. Yet, almost every harmful boundary violation started with a series of boundary crossings.

This engaging and interactive training will explore the ethical and clinical considerations involved in navigating professional boundaries with clients. Participants will examine decision-making frameworks for evaluating boundary dilemmas, and discuss real-world examples that go beyond simplistic "right versus wrong" thinking by exploring the nature, significance and context of the boundary.

Through audience polling, small-group discussion, and case analysis, participants will strengthen their ability to recognize risk factors, apply ethical decision-making processes, and maintain dynamic and authentic professional relationships that support client well-being while avoiding the slippery slope toward boundary violations. Please be prepared to have camera-on whenever possible and ready to interact with other participants.

Course Goals

1. Increase participants' understanding of professional roles, boundaries, and ethical responsibilities in clinical social work practice.

2. Strengthen participants' ability to evaluate complex boundary situations using ethical decision-making and professional integrity.

Learning Objectives:

Upon completion of this training, participants will be able to:

1. Differentiate between boundary crossings and boundary violations.

2. Apply a decision-making process to evaluate ethical and clinical considerations in boundary dilemmas.

3. Identify risk factors and warning signs that may increase the likelihood of problematic dual relationships or boundary violations.

About the Presenter:

Lara Okoloko, LICSW is a licensed clinical social worker in the Seattle area. She provides training to behavioral health providers who want to feel authentic, engaged, and effective in their work with clients.

Lara has worked as a clinical social worker for over 20 years, with a clinical background in case management, medical social work, group facilitation, individual and family therapy. Lara continues her work as a therapist while also supervising, teaching and training. She has twice been recognized by the UW School of Social Work’s student choice teaching award and is a member of the Motivational Interviewing Network of Trainers (MINT).