Setting Healthy Boundaries: Handling Non-Clinical Client Communications

As a Texas Licensed Professional Counselor, maintaining professional boundaries with clients is crucial for ethical practice, therapeutic effectiveness, and your own well-being. But what happens when a client starts texting, emailing, or calling you about non-clinical matters—like sharing memes, asking for personal advice, or inviting you to social events? These situations can blur the lines of the therapeutic relationship and present ethical and legal risks.

Below, we outline the best practices for handling these types of scenarios, complete with real-world examples to guide your approach.

Establish and Reinforce Professional Boundaries

Best Practice: Texas regulations require LPCs to maintain clear professional boundaries. Non-therapeutic relationships—any interaction unrelated to therapy—are prohibited.

A client texts you a funny meme. At your next session, you say:"I appreciate your sense of humor, but I want to remind you that our communication outside of sessions should focus on topics related to your counseling. This helps keep our work together clear and professional."

Clarify Communication Policies in Informed Consent

Best Practice: Clearly outline in your informed consent how and when clients may contact you, and what topics are appropriate.

Your consent form could state:"You may email or text me to reschedule appointments. Please do not use these methods for emergencies or non-therapy matters, such as sharing personal news or social invitations."You review this with the client during intake, clarifying all emergency procedures.

Address Boundary Crossings Promptly and Directly

Best Practice: If a client crosses a boundary, address it kindly but firmly at your next meeting.

A client calls you for advice about buying a car. In session, you say:"I noticed you reached out about car shopping. I want to keep our focus on your therapy goals, so let’s keep our communication about your mental health and counseling needs."

Use Secure, HIPAA-Compliant Communication Channels

Best Practice: Only use secure platforms for client communication and discourage sharing sensitive info via regular text or email.

A client emails you a detailed journal entry. You reply:"Thank you for sharing your thoughts. For your privacy, please use our secure client portal for sensitive information, or bring it to our next session."

Document All Communications

Best Practice: Keep a record of all client communications, especially if they relate to boundary setting.

After a client sends a non-clinical text, you note in their file:"6/15/25: Client texted 06/09/25 about unrelated personal matter. Reviewed communication policy in session today and reminded client to use contact methods for therapy-related topics only."

Refer to Ethical Codes and State Regulations

Best Practice: Be familiar with the Texas LPC Code of Ethics and cite it when explaining boundaries to clients.

You tell a client:"The Texas LPC Code of Ethics requires me to maintain professional boundaries, which means I can’t engage in personal conversations outside of therapy."

Self-Care and Professional Support

Best Practice: If you feel uncomfortable or unsure, seek supervision or peer consultation.

You notice repeated boundary crossings from a client. You discuss the situation with your supervisor:"I’ve had a client who keeps contacting me about non-clinical matters. Can we talk through the best way to reinforce boundaries?"

Why Boundaries Matter

By following these recommendations, you protect the therapeutic relationship, maintain compliance with Texas LPC regulations, and model healthy boundaries for your clients. Setting and maintaining clear boundaries not only safeguards your practice but also supports your clients in learning and respecting healthy relational limits.

Remember: Boundaries are not barriers—they’re the foundation of effective, ethical, and compassionate care.

Have questions about professional boundaries or need support? Reach out to your supervisor, a trusted colleague, or your professional association for guidance.

...supervision matters!