Ethics With The Stars: Popcorn, Pitfalls, & Poor Decisions
Tammy A. Hanson, MSW, LCSW, MAC, CCTP, LCAS, CCS
Workshop Overview
This session is a dynamic, interactive training designed to engage clinical professionals in the practical application of ethical principles using pop culture as the teaching tool. Through a curated collection of film clips, television scenes, and streaming series moments, participants will explore a wide range of ethical dilemmas commonly encountered in counseling practice. Across three hours, participants will view multiple short clips featuring fictional therapists and clients. Each scene will be followed by group discussions to identify ethical concerns and analyze potential impacts on the therapeutic relationship. Whether it’s boundary issues, dual relationships, confidentiality breaches, or romantic relationships with clients, this training uses memorable media moments to reinforce ethical awareness and critical thinking skills—making ethics both accessible and engaging for all participants.
WORKSHOP INFORMATION
October 2nd, 2026
9:00 AM ET to 12:00 PM ET – Training Presentation
LOCATION: Dilworth Center Lecture Hall – 2240 Park Rd. Charlotte, NC 28212
COST: FREE – There is no charge for this complimentary training.
REGISTRATION: Get Tickets on Givelively HERE.
By the conclusion of this workshop, participants will be able to:
- Identify and analyze common ethical dilemmas in clinical practice by examining portrayals of therapeutic relationships in popular media and applying relevant professional codes of ethics.
- Evaluate professional boundaries and their impact on the therapeutic alliance, including considerations around gift-giving, dual relationships, physical contact, termination, and time management in sessions.
- Demonstrate knowledge of confidentiality, privacy, and documentation laws (including HIPAA) as they relate to electronic communication, client access to records, and public disclosures of client information.
- Apply ethical decision-making models to complex clinical situations, recognizing when and how to consult with supervisors or colleagues when ethical ambiguity arises.
- Compare and contrast the ethical guidelines from NASW, ACA, APA, and NC Substance Abuse Professional Practice Board on issues such as romantic relationships with clients, dual roles, and client safety, using film scenes as illustrative case studies.
ABOUT THE PRESENTER
Tammy A. Hanson, MSW, LCSW, MAC, CCTP, LCAS, CCS
COO, Dilworth Center
Tammy Hanson is the Chief Operating Officer at Dilworth Center in Charlotte, where she oversees all aspects of operational management, including comprehensive clinical oversight. She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Master Addiction Counselor, Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist, and a Certified Clinical Supervisor. She is also certified as a Mental Health Professional (MH) through the Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association (Eagala), specializing in equine-assisted psychotherapy. Ms. Hanson holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte and a Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. With 25 years of experience in addiction treatment, Ms. Hanson spent a decade providing direct clinical care on the front lines, specializing in working with adolescents, young adults, and their families. Over the past 16 years, she has been actively involved in training and supervising counselors, sharing her expertise in evidence-based practices, ethical standards, and clinical supervision techniques. Ms. Hanson currently provides clinical supervision and guidance to a multidisciplinary team of 20 staff members at Dilworth Center in Charlotte, NC, demonstrating her commitment to maintaining high ethical standards and quality care in addiction treatment.
NCASPPB CREDITS
We have been approved by the NC Substance Abuse Professional Practice Board (NCSAPPB) for approval of 3 General Skill Building (ETHICS). Completion of a short, post-workshop electronic survey will be required to receive your certificate.
This approval is for NC by the NCSAPPB. Any questions about the credits being honored elsewhere will have to be directed toward the appropriate board.
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