Ethics Flashcards
1
Q
What are ethics in the context of counseling?
A
Moral principles that guide professional counselor behavior to protect the safety and welfare of clients and counselors.
2
Q
What is the primary purpose of codes of ethics for counselors?
A
To guide ethical behavior and decision-making in professional practice.
3
Q
How do ethical codes serve as accountability measures?
A
They allow the profession to hold members responsible for breaches of ethical conduct.
4
Q
What is the difference between mandatory and aspirational ethics?
A
• Mandatory ethics: Minimum standards all counselors must follow.
• Aspirational ethics: Ideal best practices that inspire ongoing growth and professional excellence.
5
Q
What does the principle of autonomy mean in counseling?
A
Respecting clients’ rights to make their own decisions, even if the counselor disagrees.
6
Q
What is nonmaleficence?
A
The duty to do no harm—physically, mentally, or psychologically—to clients.
7
Q
What is the ethical principle of beneficence?
A
Promoting the well-being of clients through proactive, positive actions.
8
Q
How is justice defined in counseling ethics?
A
Ensuring fairness and nondiscrimination so that all clients receive equal treatment.
9
Q
What does fidelity mean in a counseling relationship?
A
Being trustworthy, loyal, and honoring commitments made to clients.
10
Q
What should a counselor do when ethical principles are in conflict?
A
Use professional judgment to determine which principle takes precedence in the situation.
11
Q
Why is it important to use a decision-making model in counseling ethics?
A
It provides a structured process for resolving ethical dilemmas and helps ensure decisions are thoughtful, fair, and guided by ethical principles.
12
Q
What is the first step in Herlihy & Corey’s ethical decision-making model?
A
Identify the problem or concern.
13
Q
What are steps 2–4 in the ethical decision-making model?
A
- Study pertinent codes of ethics and research.
- Reflect on ethical principles.
- Consult with other professionals.
14
Q
What are steps 5–7 in the ethical decision-making model?
A
- Stay aware of your emotions.
- Include the client when feasible.
- Decide on a desired resolution and brainstorm actions.
15
Q
What are the final steps in the ethical decision-making model?
A
- Examine possible consequences and choose a course of action.
- Assess the action.
- Take action.
16
Q
What is the purpose of the ACA Code of Ethics?
A
To guide ethical behavior, provide a foundation for resolving ethical issues, and outline procedures for complaints.
17
Q
How many times has the ACA Code of Ethics been revised since 1961?
A
Six times, to stay current with the profession’s evolving needs.
18
Q
What are some expanded areas in the most recent ACA Code of Ethics?
A
• Technology and social media
• Distance counseling
• Multiculturalism and advocacy
• Confidentiality
• Record-keeping
• Imposition of values
• Diagnosis and end-of-life care.
19
Q
Why is familiarity with the ACA Code important for the NCE and CPCE?
A
Because many exam questions are based on scenarios that require knowledge of ethical standards.
20
Q
What are the nine main sections of the ACA Code of Ethics?
A
A. The Counseling Relationship
B. Confidentiality and Privacy
C. Professional Responsibility
D. Relationships with Other Professionals
E. Evaluation, Assessment, and Interpretation
F. Supervision, Training, and Teaching
G. Research and Publication
H. Distance Counseling, Technology, and Social Media
I. Resolving Ethical Issues.
21
Q
What are counselors required to do regarding documentation?
A
Keep accurate records and document counseling activities as required by law and their employer.
22
Q
How should counseling plans be developed?
A
Collaboratively with clients, ensuring they are realistic and goal-oriented.
23
Q
When must counselors obtain informed consent?
A
Before beginning services, both verbally and in writing.
24
Q
What is assent, and when must it be obtained?
A
Assent is a minor or legally incapable client’s agreement to counseling, which must be obtained when informed consent cannot be legally given.
25
What must a counselor do before collaborating with another provider?
Obtain permission from the client to contact and work with other mental health professionals.
26
What are the guidelines for romantic or sexual relationships with clients?
They are strictly prohibited during counseling and for five years after the last session—even with clients’ significant others or family members.
27
Are virtual relationships with clients allowed?
No. Counselors must avoid virtual relationships, including through social media.
28
When may counselors interact with clients outside of counseling?
Only if the interaction could be beneficial; consent must be obtained and reasoning documented.
29
What must counselors do before changing roles in the counseling relationship?
Obtain the client’s informed consent and document the decision.
30
How should counselors handle client advocacy?
Advocate for clients (with consent) and encourage self-advocacy when appropriate.
31
What is required before admitting a client into group counseling?
Screen potential members to ensure alignment with the group’s goals.
32
What must be discussed with clients regarding payment?
Counselors must clearly establish and discuss fees, including procedures for non-payment.
33
When is bartering acceptable in counseling?
Only if suggested by the client, deemed fair, and culturally appropriate in the community.
34
What should counselors consider when offered a gift by a client?
The potential impact on the counseling relationship before deciding to accept or decline.
35
When should a counselor terminate the counseling relationship?
When the client no longer needs or benefits from treatment.
36
What must counselors do in case of extended absence, illness, or death?
Make appropriate arrangements to ensure clients continue receiving care.
37
What must counselors do regarding confidentiality and cultural sensitivity?
Address confidentiality in a culturally sensitive manner and inform clients of its limits.
38
When is it appropriate to request private information from a client?
Only when clinically warranted.
39
What are some exceptions to confidentiality where disclosure may be justified?
• Risk of serious, foreseeable harm to client or others
• Life-threatening communicable disease disclosure refusal
• Terminal illness and right-to-die cases (with legal/ethical approval)
• Court orders
40
What must counselors do when breaking confidentiality?
• Notify the client when possible and appropriate
• Disclose only the minimum necessary information
41
When is client consent required to share confidential information?
When sharing with treatment teams or third-party payers.
42
Where should confidential discussions with clients take place?
In private settings.
43
What must counselors do regarding confidentiality in group or family counseling?
Clearly discuss limits of confidentiality with all participants.
44
What rights do parents/guardians have in minor clients’ counseling?
They may access confidential information but should be engaged in collaboration to support the minor’s needs.
45
How must client records be stored?
In secure locations, protected from unauthorized access.
46
Do clients have access to their records?
Yes, clients are entitled to reasonable access and can ask questions about the content.
47
What is required before recording or observing a client session?
Obtain the client’s prior consent.
48
What must counselors do when working with research participants?
Discuss confidentiality limits and avoid revealing identifying information without consent.
49
How must client identity be protected during professional consultation?
Do not disclose identifiable information unless the client has given prior consent.
50
What should counselors consider before accepting a job or providing services?
They must practice only within the limits of their education, training, and experience.
51
What is the counselor’s responsibility when hiring others?
Hire only capable and qualified individuals.
52
How should counselors evaluate their professional abilities?
Assess the effectiveness of their skills and actively improve areas of weakness.
53
Why must counselors engage in continuing education?
To stay updated on current practices and improve their effectiveness.
54
When should counselors abstain from performing professional duties?
When they are impaired emotionally, physically, or psychologically in a way that could interfere with client care.
55
What is a 'records custodian'?
A designated colleague who will manage client records in the event of the counselor’s death, impairment, or end of practice.
56
What are counselors’ responsibilities in advertising their services?
Represent services truthfully and refrain from misleading or pressuring clients into purchases.
57
How should counselors present their qualifications?
Accurately and honestly—e.g., not using 'Dr.' unless their doctorate is in a counseling-related field.
58
What must counselors report about their degree program and memberships?
They must provide accurate information about accreditation and professional affiliation status.
59
What ethical stance must counselors take regarding discrimination and harassment?
Denounce and avoid all culturally based discriminatory behavior and all forms of sexual harassment.
60
How must counselors present information in public reports or media?
Objectively, scientifically, and based on professional practices—clearly distinguishing personal opinions.
61
Are counselors encouraged to do pro bono work?
Yes, counselors should offer services to the public without expectation of compensation when possible.
62
What criteria must counseling techniques meet?
They must be grounded in theory or evidence. If techniques are 'developing' or 'unproven,' clients must be informed of the risks.
63
How should counselors respond to professionals who use different techniques?
Show respect for other professionals and their methods, even if they differ.
64
Why should counselors strive to build positive relationships with other professionals?
To enhance their own effectiveness and enrich client outcomes.
65
What is the counselor’s responsibility in interdisciplinary teams?
Protect client confidentiality and prioritize the client’s welfare.
66
What does accepting employment at an organization imply?
Agreement with the organization’s practices and procedures.
67
What should counselors do about unethical practices at their organization?
Notify the employer and work toward policy change.
68
Can an employee be penalized for ethically reporting unethical behavior?
No, counselors must not fire or persecute employees for ethical disclosures.
69
What must counselors do before offering consultation?
Ensure they are qualified, obtain informed consent, and collaborate on goals.
70
How should counselors ensure client welfare in assessments?
Provide accurate interpretations and explain results in understandable terms.
71
When can counselors use an assessment tool?
Only when they are trained and qualified in its use.
72
What is the counselor’s responsibility when supervising assessments?
Monitor that supervisees use techniques appropriately.
73
When must informed consent be obtained in assessment?
Before beginning the assessment process.
74
How should counselors approach diagnosis?
With cultural sensitivity and awareness of historical/social bias.
75
What should a counselor do if a diagnosis could harm the client?
Consider abstaining from giving the diagnosis.
76
What type of assessment tools should be used?
Those with sound psychometric properties (validity and reliability).
77
What must counselors consider when using tools not normed for a client’s culture?
Interpret results with caution and context.
78
How should assessment conditions be handled?
Follow standard administration guidelines and document any irregularities.
79
What is the counselor’s responsibility with tech-based assessments?
Ensure proper function and accuracy.
80
Should counselors use outdated assessment tools?
No, they must avoid using tools that are no longer appropriate.
81
What must counselors follow when creating assessments?
Use appropriate and contemporary standards and procedures.
82
Can counselors perform forensic evaluations on current or former clients?
No, they must not engage in forensic evaluation of current/former clients or accept clients previously evaluated for forensic purposes.
83
How must supervisors monitor supervisees’ performance?
By discussing cases, observing live or recorded sessions, and ensuring client needs are met.
84
What must supervisees discuss with clients regarding supervision?
The limits of confidentiality as it applies to the supervisory relationship.
85
What training is required before a counselor supervises others?
Supervisors must complete formal training in supervision.
86
What types of relationships are prohibited between supervisors and supervisees?
Romantic, sexual, familial, and close personal relationships.
87
When may supervisors interact with supervisees outside of professional settings?
Only if beneficial; must obtain consent and document the rationale.
88
When can the supervisory relationship end?
Either party may end it with proper notice and rationale.
89
What must supervisors provide to supervisees?
Regular formal and informal evaluations and support in improving weak areas.
90
When should supervisors endorse or recommend dismissal of supervisees?
Endorse only competent supervisees; recommend dismissal for persistent poor performance.
91
What ethical and professional standards must counselor educators follow?
They must be knowledgeable of laws, ethics, and teach ethically across all class modalities.
92
What are counselor educators required to teach within?
Only within their areas of competence and with adequate training in instructional technology.
93
How should counselor educators address multiculturalism in teaching?
Infuse it into all coursework to foster culturally competent counselors.
94
What must educators ensure about field placements?
Site supervisors are qualified and all parties understand their roles and ethical duties.
95
What should prospective students be informed about?
Program goals, requirements, expectations, and career advisement.
96
What is the policy on student self-disclosure in class?
It should not impact grades; assignments must respect student boundaries.
97
What may educators require of students with personal issues?
That they seek appropriate help if the issues may hinder their professional practice.
98
What must educators provide to students regarding performance?
Regular formal and informal evaluations and support to improve.
99
What types of relationships are prohibited with students?
Romantic or sexual relationships with current students or those under their authority.
100
What must occur before engaging in a romantic relationship with a former student?
Discuss potential risks and implications of the relationship.
101
When can nonprofessional interactions occur with students?
Only if potentially beneficial; must obtain consent and document the rationale.
102
What responsibilities do counselor educators have regarding diversity?
Promote recruitment of diverse students/faculty and integrate multicultural competency in training and supervision.
103
What must counselors obtain before conducting research with human subjects?
Approval from an Institutional Review Board (IRB), when applicable.
104
Who is primarily responsible for ensuring ethical conduct in research?
The principal researcher.
105
What must counselors ensure when students or supervisees participate in research?
That their participation is voluntary and does not affect their academic or professional standing.
106
What must research participants be informed of before a study?
Their right to informed consent and to withdraw at any time.
107
When is deception acceptable in research?
Only when necessary, justified, harmless, and followed by debriefing.
108
What must happen after a study ends?
Confidential info must be protected or destroyed, and participants must be informed of the study’s purpose.
109
Are romantic/sexual relationships allowed with research participants?
No, they are strictly prohibited.
110
What must counselors do with research results?
Report results honestly—even if negative—and disclose study limitations.
111
How should researchers give credit in publications?
Use joint authorship, acknowledgments, or footnotes for substantial contributions.
112
What must researchers and reviewers avoid in publication?
Submitting to multiple journals simultaneously and breaching reviewer confidentiality.
113
What must counselors be competent in when using technology?
Ethical, legal, and technical aspects of distance counseling and social media.
114
What must counselors obtain before engaging in distance or tech-assisted counseling?
Informed consent and clarity that clients may withdraw at any time.
115
What must be explained to clients regarding confidentiality in distance counseling?
The limitations of maintaining confidentiality via electronic means.
116
What must clients be informed of regarding the use of technology in counseling?
The limitations of technology and its effect on the counseling process.
117
What must counselors do before engaging in distance counseling?
Verify the identity of the client.
118
When is it appropriate to use distance counseling?
Only when clients can competently use the necessary technology.
119
When should counselors terminate distance counseling?
When it is no longer effective.
120
How should counselors handle differences between face-to-face and electronic communication?
Acknowledge and minimize the impact as much as possible.
121
What must counselors do regarding electronic records and websites?
Follow legal standards and ensure language and disability accessibility.
122
What types of electronic resources should counselors provide?
Accessible links to licensure and professional certification boards.
123
Are counselors responsible for knowing the ACA Code of Ethics?
Yes. Lack of knowledge of the code is not a valid excuse for unethical behavior.
124
What should counselors do when legal and ethical obligations conflict?
Attempt to resolve the conflict; if unsuccessful, follow the law.
125
What should a counselor do upon noticing an ethical violation?
First attempt informal resolution; if unresolved, report to the ACA Ethics Committee.
126
When should counselors consult others?
When unsure about the most ethical course of action.
127
When is it appropriate to file an ethics complaint?
Only when there is sufficient, credible information to support the claim.
128
Can counselors discriminate against someone for filing a complaint?
No. They must not retaliate and must cooperate with ethics investigations.
129
What kind of ethical standards does the NBCC Code include?
Mandatory ethics only—no aspirational ethics.
130
What are NCCs required to do under the directive to prevent harm?
Protect confidentiality, avoid dual relationships, and maintain client safety and privacy.
131
What services can NCCs provide?
Only those they are trained and qualified to provide; they must also seek supervision when needed.
132
How must NCCs promote the welfare of clients, students, and supervisees?
By informing them adequately, consulting responsibly, and using assessments properly.
133
What are NCCs expected to do in terms of honesty?
Accurately represent credentials, keep truthful records, and report research honestly.
134
How should NCCs protect the profession’s integrity?
Avoid actions that damage trust, act professionally, and manage records appropriately.
135
How do NCCs ensure client involvement?
Engage clients collaboratively, obtain informed consent, and respond to records requests promptly.
136
What does the NBCC directive on accountability require?
Follow NBCC and workplace procedures, and adhere to professional research and assessment standards.
137
What is liability in the counseling profession?
A counselor’s legal responsibility to act with due care; failure to do so may lead to legal action.
138
What is a tort in the context of counseling?
A legal response to harm caused to a person or property, which can be filed by a client.
139
What’s the difference between an intentional and unintentional tort?
Unintentional torts (like negligence or malpractice) lack harmful intent, while intentional torts involve obvious harm even if not intended.
140
What is negligence in counseling?
When a counselor fails to use reasonable care in professional duties, resulting in client injury.
141
What are the four elements needed to prove negligence?
1. Legal duty existed
2. Duty was breached
3. Real injury occurred
4. The breach caused the injury
142
What is malpractice in counseling?
Failure to provide the standard of care expected based on a counselor’s credentials and experience.
143
How is malpractice different from negligence?
Malpractice typically involves licensed professionals and a failure to meet established professional standards.
144
What is standard of care in counseling?
The expected level of care and competence based on similar professionals in comparable roles.
145
What is defamation in counseling?
Intentionally spreading false information that harms someone’s reputation.
146
What’s the difference between libel and slander?
• Libel: Written defamation
• Slander: Spoken defamation
147
When can a counselor be held liable for defamation?
If they knowingly share false, damaging information (e.g., via notes, records, or communication) with malicious intent.
148
When are counselors legally and ethically obligated to break client confidentiality?
When clients pose serious threats to themselves or others, or when abuse of vulnerable individuals is suspected.
149
Are counselors required to report suspected child or elder abuse?
Yes, in all states for child abuse and nearly all states for elder abuse or abuse of vulnerable individuals.
150
Are counselors legally required to report domestic violence?
Generally, no—most states do not require it, though some require doctors to report or provide resources.
151
Can counselors break confidentiality if a client is at risk for suicide?
Yes. Beneficence (protecting life) can override autonomy when the risk is serious or imminent.
152
Should counselors breach confidentiality for self-harming clients?
Depends. If harm is superficial and non-lethal, autonomy may take precedence; otherwise, beneficence may apply.
153
What should counselors do when assessing suicide or self-harm risk?
Conduct a thorough assessment, consult when needed, and document all decisions and rationale.
154
What precedent did Tarasoff v. Regents of the University of California establish?
Counselors must warn and protect identifiable third parties when a client makes a serious threat of harm.
155
How was the Tarasoff ruling expanded in 1976?
Counselors are required not only to warn but also to take action to protect potential victims.
156
Do all states follow the Tarasoff precedent?
No. Most do, but some states like Texas do not require warning/protection of third parties.
157
What triggered the Tarasoff ruling?
A student told a university psychologist he planned to kill Tatiana Tarasoff; she was not warned and was later killed.
158
What steps should counselors take when unsure about breaching confidentiality?
• Review laws and court rulings
• Consult ethics codes
• Speak with legal or professional advisors
• Document decisions and rationale
159
What is confidentiality in counseling?
The ethical duty of counselors to keep client information private.
160
What is privileged communication?
A legal right that protects counselor-client communications from being disclosed in court without client consent.
161
Who holds the right to confidentiality and privileged communication?
The client, who may waive these rights in writing.
162
Does privileged communication apply in all cases?
No. It varies by state and may not apply in criminal or child custody cases.
163
What is a subpoena?
A legal document ordering someone to appear in court or produce specific records.
164
What should a counselor do upon receiving a subpoena?
Consult with an attorney before releasing any client information.
165
What should a counselor do if the client agrees to release information?
Have the client sign a written authorization to disclose the information.
166
What should a counselor do if the client does not want to release information?
Ask the client’s attorney to file a motion to quash the subpoena.
167
What’s the difference between a subpoena and a court order?
A subpoena is a request; a court order is a demand. Counselors must comply with court orders.
168
What must counselors do if they receive a court order?
Comply and release only the information relevant to the case, per ACA Code of Ethics.
