Aca Code Of Ethics Summary

Summary

The professional counseling arena is one that mandates absolute integrity of character and a strong awareness of moral boundaries. Perhaps even more important is a firm grasp of the code of ethics governing the body of professional counselors, the American Counseling Association.

The video Legal and Ethical Issues for Mental Health Professions, vol. 2: Dual Relationships, Boundaries, Standards of Care & Termination (Sommers. 2010) provided tremendous insight into the importance of strict adherence to governing ethical codes and the need to obtain clarity when counselor client issue arise that are not emphatically outlined in ethical codes. The one thing that is readily obvious, when the ethics code is unclear in a matter, personal

Section A.10 of the ACA Code of Ethics governs this parameter with Section A.10.c. noting the greatest concern. This sections suggests that counselors consider the local community from which the client pool represents in determining fees. Should the amount assessed be deemed beyond ability of clients to pay the counselor then has duty to assist in finding amicable service. An additional problematic area is that of gift giving. Because of the nature of the client counselor relationship gifts beyond payment for service bear the potential for opening the door for boundary crossing. Section A.10.f. notes that counselors must determine if it will be common practice to receive gifts from clients, and if so in what context and under what conditions ensuring the relationship is not

The reality of the nature of the profession guarantees there will be relationships that will not be amicable, for this reason guidelines are put in place to provide means for required termination of service. Termination of service must be conducted in a manner that is void of prejudice, bias or offense. Counselors mat decide not to counsel a client after determining that he or she lack the ability to service the needs of the client (ACA A.11.a). Likewise counselors walk a morally charged line with referrals and must be absolutely certain the reasons for referrals are just and not personal in nature (ACA A.11.b.). There may be occurrences that mandate termination for interested parties as noted in Section A.11.c, these consist of but not limited to services no longer needed by client, counselor deems he or she may be harmed, or failure of clients to pay. If a counselor determines that termination or referral is required Section A.11.d. and the preset procedure and guidelines should be followed coupled with clear lines of communication. Furthermore counselors should maintain a degree of concern and respect for the care clients until the client fully transitions ACA