Renowned pastor and counsellor DY Donkoh has advised pastors to set clear boundaries during counselling sessions, especially with people of the opposite sex, to avoid sexual misconduct.

He shared this view on yesterday’s episode of Let’s Talk on Joy Prime while contributing to a discussion about a young woman who said she had been in a five month sexual relationship with a man of God she initially approached for counselling.

“if you are a good professional counselor, one of the things you don’t do is to embrace and pamper people when they are emotional, crying or are broken in front of you. Don’t do that. Don’t make them feel safe in your hands. Not in words, but in action, especially if it’s the opposite sex. Sometimes setting boundaries for yourself, does you a lot of good.” he said.

According to the pastor, although men of God are anointed, they remain human and are therefore susceptible to temptation. He advised that when a pastor feels attracted to someone who comes for counselling, the wisest course of action is to avoid being alone with that person.

“The best thing to do if you realize you cannot stand the person, invite someone to sit in a corner during the session. It saves you a lot,” he stated.

Pastor Donkoh also cautioned against the use of flattering language during counselling sessions, noting that comments such as “you are so beautiful,” “look at your legs,” or “your husband doesn’t deserve you” are inappropriate and can blur professional boundaries.

He further warned against making emotional promises like “I’II be there for you 24 hours” or “call me anytime,” explaining that such statements can create a false sense of security and emotional dependence, which often leads to inappropriate relationships.