Pro Bono Work Ethics Case Study

As state and federal behavioral health care resources diminish; so do one's access to counseling services. Considering the ethical implications of such restrictions is crucial in determining the appropriate course of action. To start with, one needs to discuss the best interests of the clients, and determine the proper course of action with a director, and associates. As a community counselor, one is committed to providing services to all residents; however, in light of financial constraints, one has to decide which services are most paramount to the welfare of the population. For instance, clients who have a history of addiction or are receiving help to treat Schizophrenia or Bipolar disorder present a greater need. Since substance abuse …show more content…
Conversely, if one worked in the private sector, there might be additional courses to deal with proposed budget cuts. Such as, section C.6.e in the American Counseling Association Code of Ethics, which states, "Counselors make a reasonable effort to provide services to the public for which there is little or no financial return" (ACA, Code of Ethics, 2014, p. 10). Pro Bono work may include group or individual sessions, according to ethical guidelines. Ethically, the decision to amend services is a difficult one. Ideally, all who seeks to better their mental health should have the right to do so, regardless of their ability to pay. Unfortunately, this is not always the case, in this scenario, I would consider the most important clients, which I see as those struggling with addiction and severe mental illness. As an example, because of the termination of behavioral health care in my city, there has been a rise in drug-related arrests, suicide-related hospitalization, and imprisonment of mentally ill individuals. Amidst dwindling resources, a counselor must continue to facilitate the needs of the client as best they can. Circumstances often incite change, yet a counselor must remain steadfast in their resolve to offer