(a) Avoid when possible.

1. (1) Counselors are aware of their influential positions with respect to clients, and they avoid exploiting the trust and dependency of clients.

2. (2)

   1. (A) Counselors make every effort to avoid dual relationships with clients that could impair professional judgment or increase the risk of harm to clients.
   2. (B) Examples of such relationships include, but are not limited to, familial, social, financial, business, or close personal relationships with clients.
3. (3) When a dual relationship cannot be avoided, counselors take appropriate professional precautions such as informed consent, consultation, supervision, and documentation to ensure that judgment is not impaired and no exploitation occurs.
4. (4) See 17 CAR § 390-601(b).