This holds the counselor more accountable for their behavior. Should there be a situation where the counselor will be in a public setting with a client, the counselor should ask whether they would be impartial and if they can compartmentalize the relationship. If the counselor has decided that he/she can be impartial and avoid the mixing of personal and professional matters, the counselor should record the details and/or discuss this with other members of the practice, so forth.
The code of ethics of any company or professional organization means absolutely nothing if the foundation of that entity does not practice what it preaches. There may as well not even be a code of ethics. By laying out the expectations of how counselors are to uphold themselves to the highest standards, we ensure that our clients receive the best possible care. Counselors should not enter into a sexual relationship, whether consensual or …show more content…
The client trusts that the counselor will keep their information confidential and treat them in a fair and just manner. The client trusts that the counselor will not abuse their relationship, whether financially, sexually or illegally. A client may file a complaint if they feel that their counselor has abused their position. This may result in the counselor losing their license, their job and in some cases, jail. The client must then waive their confidentiality clauses while the committee investigates their claim.
Sometimes ethics can be a gray area. Counselors have ethical dilemmas of their own. If, in the course of a session, the client relates that they have committed a crime, admits to abusing another person or animal or deemed a threat to themselves and others, the counselor should refer to the ACA Code of Ethics. If it is a gray matter and the counselor is unsure how to handle the situation they may consult with other