PCN 521 Module 1 Code Of Ethics Worksheet Navigate To The Am

PCN 521 Module 1 Code Of Ethics Worksheetnavigate To The American Ass

Pcn 521 Module 1: Code of Ethics Worksheet Navigate to the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy site and review the Code of Ethics. Select one subsection from standards 1, 2, and 3. Add the subsection number (i.e., 1.1, 2.3) and the subsection text below. Review the subsection and complete the rest of the worksheet. Refer to your course textbook and supplemental readings for assistance as needed.

Issues that would arise under sub-standard How the issue will be addressed Ethical Factors to Consider Standard One (example) 1.1 Non-Discrimination. Marriage and family therapists provide professional assistance to persons without discrimination on the basis of race, age, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, disability, gender, health status, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or relationship status. A Christian therapist whose personal beliefs do not support alternative lifestyles is assigned to work with a gay couple. One member of the couple is in male to female transition. The therapist would seek supervision and consultation in regards to how to support the goals of their clients without imposition of their personal beliefs. Discrimination—the therapist cannot refer out simply because they are uncomfortable or do not agree with a client’s sexual orientation, gender identity, or relationship status. Standard One Standard Two Standard Three References Code of Ethics. (2015). Retrieved from © 2015. Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.

Paper For Above instruction

The selected subsections from the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT) Code of Ethics provide vital guidance for ethical practice in therapy. For this paper, I have chosen subsection 1.1 under Standard One, 2.3 under Standard Two, and 3.2 under Standard Three. These subsections highlight essential ethical principles related to non-discrimination, client confidentiality, and competent practice, respectively, and are integral to guiding therapists in complex clinical situations, such as the Vargas case study.

Subsection 1.1 - Non-Discrimination

Text: Marriage and family therapists provide professional assistance to persons without discrimination on the basis of race, age, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, disability, gender, health status, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or relationship status.

Issues that would arise:

In a clinical setting, a therapist might encounter clients with diverse backgrounds or identities, raising concerns about potential biases or discrimination. For example, a therapist working with a same-sex couple or an individual with a different cultural background might face internal or external pressures that challenge equitable treatment. During the Vargas case, recognizing such issues is crucial, particularly when cultural or personal beliefs could influence judgment.

Addressing the issue:

The therapist must consciously practice cultural competence and self-awareness to prevent discrimination. As in the Vargas case, where biases could arise about Frank’s behavior or family dynamics, the therapist should seek supervision or consultation when personal biases are identified. A commitment to non-discrimination ensures that all clients receive equal respect, support, and quality of care without prejudice or favoritism. This aligns with the principle that personal beliefs or cultural values should not interfere with professional responsibilities.

Ethical factors to consider:

Respect for diversity, cultural humility, and self-awareness are fundamental. Therapists also have to navigate personal values ethically, ensuring that these do not impact their professional conduct or client outcomes. Maintaining confidentiality and respecting clients' identities are critical, especially for marginalized populations.

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Subsection 2.3 - Boundaries of Confidentiality and Its Limits

Text: Marriage and family therapists respect the confidentiality of clients and disclose information only with the clients’ consent or when legally mandated.

Issues that would arise:

In the Vargas case, concerns about disclosure are pertinent, especially regarding children’s behaviors and parental dynamics. For instance, if Frank’s behaviors or family tensions are disclosed, the therapist must decide what information to share and what to keep confidential. Additionally, the issue of mandated reporting for child safety arises if signs of neglect or abuse are observed.

Addressing the issue:

The therapist should clearly explain confidentiality boundaries and legal limits to both parents and children early in therapy. In the Vargas situation, if there are concerns about child neglect or abuse, the therapist must follow mandated reporting laws, which may require disclosures to authorities. Maintaining trust involves being transparent about these legal obligations from the outset.

Ethical factors to consider:

Ensuring clients understand confidentiality limits, respecting their privacy, and balancing legal responsibilities are paramount. It is also necessary to document disclosures accurately and to approach sensitive information with care, always prioritizing the child's safety and well-being.

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Subsection 3.2 - Competence and Practice Limitations

Text: Marriage and family therapists undertake only those services for which they are qualified by education, training, license, or experience.

Issues that would arise:

In preadolescent cases like Frank’s, certain assessments or interventions require specialized training in childhood behavior disorders, ADHD diagnosis, or behavioral management. If a therapist does not possess adequate training, they might misdiagnose or recommend ineffective interventions.

Addressing the issue:

The therapist should recognize personal limits and seek consultation or refer to specialists when necessary. For instance, in the Vargas case, a formal assessment for ADHD should involve trained psychologists or pediatricians, not solely the therapist’s initial impressions. Continuing education and supervision are essential to maintain competence.

Ethical factors to consider:

Practicing within one's scope ensures effective and ethical treatment. Overstepping competencies risks harm, legal repercussions, and loss of professional credibility. Maintaining ongoing professional development helps uphold competence and serve clients effectively.

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Conclusion

The selected subsections—non-discrimination, confidentiality, and competence—are cornerstones of ethical therapy. They promote respect, safety, and effective intervention in complex cases such as the Vargas family. Therapists must diligently uphold these principles, continuously evaluate their practice, and seek supervision when faced with ethical dilemmas. Adherence to the AAMFT Code of Ethics ensures that therapy remains a respectful, safe, and effective profession dedicated to fostering clients' well-being.

References

  1. American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy. (2015). Code of Ethics. Retrieved from https://www.aamft.org/Corporate/Position_Papers_Reports/Code_of_Ethics.aspx
  2. Corey, G., Corey, M. S., & Callanan, P. (2015). Issues and Ethics in the Helping Professions (9th ed.). Brooks/Cole.
  3. Knapp, S. (2016). Ethical Decision Making in the Helping Professions. Sage Publications.
  4. Remley, T. P., & Herlihy, B. (2016). Ethical, Legal, and Professional Issues in Counseling (5th ed.). Pearson.
  5. Barnett, J. E., & Johnson, W. B. (2015). Ethics Desk Reference for Counselors. American Counseling Association.
  6. Wilcoxon, S. A. (2018). Ethical, Legal, and Professional Issues in Counseling. Routledge.
  7. Linton, J. M. (2018). Professional Ethics in Counseling & Psychotherapy. Routledge.
  8. Beauchamp, T. L., & Childress, J. F. (2019). Principles of Biomedical Ethics (8th ed.). Oxford University Press.
  9. Fisher, C. B. (2017). Decoding the Ethics Code: A Practical Guide for Psychologists. APA Publishing.
  10. Monahan, D. J., & Walker, M. E. (2020). Ethical Practice in Mental Health: A Guide for Psychologists and Counselors. Routledge.

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