Code of Ethics - 2026

Laws & Case Law Decisions

Thapar v. Zezulka 

Duty to warn in Texas

  • In states following Tarasoff v. Regents of UC: 
    • judicially created duty to warn identifiable victims
  • In Texas after Thapar:
    • no broad common-law duty
    • Therapist's obligations are defined by statute 

In re Lifschutz

Limits of patient privilege in response to legal subpoenas 

  • Supreme Court of California
  • Decision that privilege is statutory - not absolute 
    • may be limited when patient mental state is a direct issue
  • In Texas, confidentiality and privilege governed primarily by state statute 
    • although this case often used in legal analysis 

Jaffee V. Redmond

Federally recognized psychotherapist-patient privilege

  • Although Texas already had statutory privilege protections
  • This case affects Texas MFT if involved in federal lawsuits, civil rights claims, and federal criminal matters
  • Texas privilege governed by Texas Rules of Evidence 509 and Texas Health & Safety Code Chapter 611

Legal & Ethical Support Contact Information

AAMFT Legal Consultation

Ask question via email at ethics@aamft.org

OR schedule phone consultation at www.aamft.org/bookaconsultation

CPH Consultation

Log into CPH account > click "request an attorney consult"

  • 2 free hours phot consultation 
  • should cover ethical/patient concerns that could potentially lead to a covered claim under your policy 
  • Must complete form to determine eligibility

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