Assignment 2 Discussion Question: Ethical Codes And Standard

Assignment 2 Discussion Question Ethical Codes And Standardsbysaturd

Assignment 2: Discussion Question: Ethical Codes and Standards By Saturday, August 15, 2015 , respond to the discussion question. Submit your responses to the appropriate Discussion Area . Use the same Discussion Area to comment on your classmates' submissions and continue the discussion until Wednesday, August 19, 2015 . After moving from a big city to a rural setting, Janice is suffering from anxiety and depression because of adjustments to the change. She wants to seek counseling services to help her adjust. Janice has always valued her privacy and is finding it difficult to commit to seeing a counselor in a rural setting. The community has only one mental health counselor. Janice fears that if she begins counseling sessions, people will learn that she is undergoing therapy. In addition, Janice is a devoted Catholic and is aware that the counselor is a devout Jehovah's Witness, as is most of the community. Janice is apprehensive that the counselor might try to encourage her to convert. She is desperate to talk to someone and does not know where to turn. Identify the ethical standards of the APA or ACA code specific to Janice's concerns that the counselor should follow to provide professional and ethical services. Identify specific sections of the ethical code, described in your own words, which may apply to Janice's situation. Describe, using the scenario, why ethical standards are important for client progress.

Paper For Above instruction

The scenario involving Janice highlights several critical ethical considerations rooted in the American Psychological Association (APA) and the American Counseling Association (ACA) codes of ethics. These standards guide mental health professionals in delivering services that respect client rights, ensure confidentiality, and promote ethical practice, especially in sensitive situations like Janice's.

Firstly, confidentiality is paramount. According to the APA Ethical Principles of Psychologists and Code of Conduct Section 4.01 and the ACA Code of Ethics Section B.1.c, psychologists and counselors must protect client privacy and confidentiality unless specific exceptions apply. Janice’s concern about privacy in a small rural community emphasizes the importance of establishing clear confidentiality agreements. The counselor must explain the limits of confidentiality, particularly in a close-knit community where information might inadvertently spread. Upholding confidentiality reassures clients like Janice, helping them feel safe enough to share openly, which is essential for effective therapy.

Secondly, the counselor's cultural and personal competence is essential. Both the APA and ACA emphasize respecting clients' cultural, religious, and personal values (APA Standard 3.01 and ACA Standard A.4). Janice’s devotion to her Catholic faith and her apprehension about the counselor’s Jehovah's Witness beliefs require the counselor to approach her with sensitivity, respect, and without bias. The counselor should avoid engaging in or promoting religious conversion, aligning with the ethic of non-maleficence—doing no harm. The counselor’s role includes respecting Janice’s autonomy while avoiding ethical conflicts that could impair her well-being.

Additionally, the issue of dual relationships and boundary setting is relevant. In small communities, counselors must be cautious to prevent compromised boundaries. According to the ACA Standard C.5 and APA Standard 3.05, counselors should avoid dual relationships that could impair objectivity. For Janice, fears of community gossip and personal biases necessitate that the counselor maintain strict professionalism and clarity about the therapeutic relationship, reinforcing trustworthiness and ethical responsibility.

The importance of these standards lies in their contribution to client progress. When clients trust that their privacy is protected, their cultural values are respected, and boundaries are maintained, they are more likely to engage fully and honestly in therapy. Ethical adherence also minimizes risks of harm, promotes client autonomy, and fosters a therapeutic environment conducive to healing and growth.

In conclusion, adherence to ethical standards of confidentiality, cultural competence, and boundary management is crucial in Janice’s case. These principles not only protect her rights but also facilitate a safe space for her to explore her concerns and work toward her mental health goals, ultimately enhancing the effectiveness of the counseling process and client outcomes.

References

1. American Psychological Association. (2017). Ethical principles of psychologists and code of conduct. Retrieved from https://www.apa.org/ethics/code
2. American Counseling Association. (2014). ACA code of ethics. Retrieved from https://www.counseling.org/resources/ethics
3. Corey, G., & Corey, M. (2018). Issues and ethics in the helping professions (10th ed.). Cengage Learning.
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