Utilize A Standard Ethical Decision-Making Model Provided

Utilize A Standard Ethical Decision Making Model Provided Below To P

Utilize a standard ethical decision-making model (provided below) to process and resolve an ethical dilemma case in counseling. Case scenarios are provided below. From these cases, choose one case to process utilizing the model. Create responses to the 8-step model regarding their specific case. Utilize and cite a minimum of 3 sources.

Two of the 3 required sources must be the ACA and NBCC Codes of Ethics, the other source could be a scholarly journal, book, or appropriate website. Utilize proper spelling, grammar, intelligible sentences, and APA format for their in-text citations and references. Ethical Decision-Making Model by Corey, Corey, Corey & Callahan (. Identify the problem (ethical dilemma). 2. Identify other potential issues involved. 3. Identify the relevant ethical guidelines (cite standards from both the ACA and NBCC code of ethics that apply). 4. Identify the relevant laws and regulations. 5. Identify the possible consultation sources that could be utilized. 6. Identify potential courses of action (at least 2 different options). 7. Identify the consequences of the potential courses of action (for each option in step 7). 8. Identify the best course of action and why.

Paper For Above instruction

The process of ethical decision-making in counseling is fundamental for maintaining professional integrity and safeguarding client welfare. Utilizing a structured model—such as the one developed by Corey, Corey, Corey, & Callahan—guides counselors through complex ethical dilemmas systematically. In this paper, I will illustrate how this model can be applied to a specific case scenario, emphasizing ethical reflection, legal considerations, and professional standards to reach sound decisions.

Case Scenario Summary

Suppose a counseling professional encounters a situation where a teenage client confides in them about engaging in illegal substance use. The client is fearful of parental repercussions and requests confidentiality. The counselor must resolve the dilemma of respecting client confidentiality versus the need to protect the client and abide by legal obligations.

Step 1: Identify the Problem (Ethical Dilemma)

It is essential to clearly define the core issue. In this case, the ethical dilemma revolves around whether to maintain client confidentiality concerning substance use or to disclose information to authorities or guardians, balancing the obligation to respect the client’s privacy against the duty to ensure their safety and adherence to legal statutes (Corey et al., 2019). This conflict lies at the heart of many counseling ethics, especially in adolescent counseling where legal mandates often require some disclosures.

Step 2: Identify Other Potential Issues Involved

Beyond the immediate ethical conflict, other issues include the potential impact on the therapeutic relationship, the client’s trust, and their safety. Disclosure might lead to adverse emotional consequences or loss of trust, but nondisclosure could endanger the client’s well-being. Additionally, cultural factors may influence perceptions of confidentiality and authority, which are pertinent considerations (American Psychological Association, 2017). The counselor must also consider the potential legal repercussions if statutory reporting is mandated.

Step 3: Identify Relevant Ethical Guidelines

The American Counseling Association’s (ACA) Code of Ethics emphasizes confidentiality and the conditions under which disclosures are permissible or required (ACA, 2014). According to standard B.1.c, counselors must respect their clients’ right to confidentiality but may disclose information without consent when it involves imminent danger or abuse. The NBCC Code of Ethics similarly states that maintaining confidentiality is critical, yet exceptions exist for safety concerns (NBCC, 2016). Both codes advocate for transparency, informed consent, and careful judgment when confidentiality poses ethical dilemmas.

Step 4: Identify Relevant Laws and Regulations

Legal statutes vary by jurisdiction but generally require reporting suspected abuse or danger to self or others. For adolescents in particular, laws often mandate reporting if harm is suspected (Jones & Smith, 2018). Failure to report can result in legal penalties, including license suspension. Conversely, breaching confidentiality without legal grounds can lead to lawsuits or professional sanctions. Therefore, understanding local, state, and federal laws is crucial.

Step 5: Identify Possible Consultation Sources

Consultation enhances ethical decision-making, especially in complex cases. Potential sources include supervising clinicians, legal counsel, colleagues, or ethics committees. Engaging with a supervisor with expertise in adolescent mental health or legal implications can help clarify obligations and options (Hood, 2020). Consulting professional organizations’ ethical guidelines provides additional perspectives in balancing competing interests.

Step 6: Identify Potential Courses of Action

Two primary options are available:

1. Maintain confidentiality and continue counseling, emphasizing harm reduction strategies and trust building.

2. Disclose the client’s substance use to parents or legal authorities, complying with mandatory reporting laws to protect the client from potential harm, even if it breaches confidentiality.

Additional options might include involving a school counselor or social worker to facilitate ongoing safety measures without full disclosure.

Step 7: Identify Consequences of Each Action

For maintaining confidentiality:

- Pros: Preserves therapeutic trust; encourages honest disclosures; respects client autonomy.

- Cons: Potential legal violations if mandated reporting is required; risk of client harm if substance use escalates.

For disclosure:

- Pros: Legal compliance; potential safety enhancement; adherence to mandatory reporting statutes.

- Cons: Possible loss of client trust; deterioration of therapeutic alliance; risk of stigmatization or emotional distress.

Each option carries significant implications for client welfare, professional ethics, and legal compliance, necessitating a careful weighing of outcomes.

Step 8: Select the Best Course of Action and Why

Considering the ethical principles of beneficence, nonmaleficence, autonomy, and justice, the best course of action is to disclose the substance use to the appropriate authorities or guardians when legal requirements mandate. While maintaining confidentiality is critical, legal directives and the duty to prevent probable harm take precedence. Prior to disclosure, the counselor should inform the client about the limits of confidentiality to uphold transparency. This approach balances ethical obligations with legal responsibilities, fostering safety while respecting the client’s rights as much as possible within the legal context (Remley & Herlihy, 2018).

Conclusion

Applying the ethical decision-making model systematically allows counselors to navigate complex dilemmas ethically and legally. By carefully analyzing each step, counselors can make informed decisions that serve both the client’s best interests and adhere to professional standards. Transparent communication, consultation, and an awareness of legal obligations are essential components of responsible counseling practice.

References

• American Counseling Association. (2014). ACA code of ethics. Alexandria, VA: Author.
• Hood, J. W. (2020). Ethical decision-making in counseling and psychotherapy. Journal of Counseling & Development, 98(3), 351-359.
• Jones, L., & Smith, P. (2018). Mental health law and adolescent confidentiality. Law & Psychology Review, 42, 123-145.
• National Board for Certified Counselors. (2016). NBCC code of ethics. Greensboro, NC: Author.
• Remley, T. P., & Herlihy, B. (2018). Ethical, legal, and professional issues in counseling (5th ed.). Pearson.
• American Psychological Association. (2017). Ethical principles of psychologists and code of conduct. Retrieved from https://www.apa.org/ethics/code