Ethics in Rural Psychology

Ethics in Rural Psychology provides readers with theoretical underpinnings, practical applications, and empirically based knowledge of the practice of psychology in rural communities. Dr. Boilen explores the similarities and differences within and across rural American communities to provide a framework for understanding this vast and varied population. Focusing on the ethical considerations unique to these communities, chapters use illustrative case examples, useful exercises, and personal anecdotes to highlight obstacles unique to rural areas. Finally, the book emphasizes the opportunity to be innovative and creative in rural practice, demonstrating how rural practices hold promise for cutting-edge advancements in the field of psychology. This book will serve practitioners, students, and researchers as a primer, handbook, and road map for the challenging and rewarding clinical work that awaits in rural America.

Sara Boilen, PsyD, is the owner and chief psychologist at Sweetgrass Psychological Services, a community-minded group practice in Northwest Montana. She serves on the Montana Board of Psychologists.

Introduction; Section One: Rural America; Chapter 1: What Is Rural?; Chapter 2: Cultural Competence and Rural America; Chapter 3: Rural Americans; Chapter 4: The Psychological Landscape of Rural America: Values, Culture, and Norms; Chapter 5: Health in Rural America; Chapter 6: Healthcare in Rural America; Section Two: Ethics in Rural Communities; Chapter 7: An Ethical Framework; Chapter 8: Ethics in Rural Practice; Chapter 9: A Road Map for Managing Ethical Dilemmas in Rural Practice; Chapter 10: Dual Roles, Multiple Relationships: No One Is a Stranger Here; Chapter 11: Confidentiality and Privacy: Small-Town Secrets; Chapter 12: The Generalist: Competencies and Necessity; Chapter 13: Life as a Rural Clinician: Isolation, Impairment, and Self-Care; Section Three: Innovations and Opportunities: Practical Applications in Rural Communities; Chapter 14: Clinical Practice in Insular Communities; Chapter 15. Recruitment and Retention; Chapter 16. Defining Rural Mental Healthcare; Chapter 17: From Collaboration to Colocation: Integrated, Whole-Person Care in Rural America; Chapter 18. Telehealth: Advances, Advantages, and Limitations; Chapter 19: Creating a Culture: Decreasing Stigma, Increasing Wellness; Chapter 20: Closing Thoughts