Rose Evans

This paper explores the literature regarding the financial dilemmas involved in being a professional art therapist and counselor. Among the sources reviewed were two textbooks: Issues and Ethics in the Helping Professions, 9th ed., (Corey, Corey, Corey, & Callanan, 2015), and Ethical Issues in Art Therapy, 3rd ed., (Moon, 2015); two edited books compiling essays by several authorities in the fields of psychoanalysis and finance: The LA$T Taboo, (Krueger, Ed., 1986), and Money Talks, (Berger & Newman, Eds., 2012); and numerous scholarly articles regarding various aspects of financial decision making in the business of being a mental health provider. The literature explores how money influences the therapeutic relationship, enumerates some of the conflicts that arise, and conveys the pragmatic, yet often emotionally charged, choices that both clients and therapists must make in the course of treatment. It examines discrete meanings money may have to both client and therapist, both in similar and in different cultural contexts, and the importance of identifying those meanings. The current economic climate is addressed and how it may influence financial decisions. The overall conclusion drawn from the literature is that regardless of the financial options chosen, clear and concise communication regarding the details of those financial arrangements will ameliorate ethical dilemmas and support better therapeutic outcomes for the client and stronger financial stability for the therapist.