Ethical Decision-Making Model

Counsellors frequently face ethical dilemmas; these dilemmas most likely involve Clients and sometimes ex Clients. Counsellors may have to confront complex ethical issues such as the ones in this case study involving confidentiality, dual relationships and power dynamics.

Bowles, Collingridge, Curry & Valentine (2006) recommend following an ethical decision-making model when dealing with complex ethical issues therefore I will approach this problem using Bowles et al. (2006) ethical decision making model, which consists of 7 steps:

1. Identify the problem

2. Refer to the code of ethics and professional guidelines

3. Determine the nature and dimensions of the dilemma

4. Generate potential courses of action

5. Consider the potential consequences of all options, and then choose a course of action

6. Evaluate the course of action

7. Implement the course of action

Additionally, I will explain how these issues could be resolved, looking at the situation through the lens of Utilitarianism, Virtue ethics, ethics of rights and duties, Professionalism and power dynamics.

1. Identifying and defining the problem

Gaudine and Thorne (2001) explain that Emotion is intrinsic and not antithetical, to a rational, ethical decision process.

Hopefully this contact and information will maintain a healthy relationship of trust with a former client while also setting boundaries. In conclusion, although Jane should be free to make her own decision about the relationship, ethical guidelines advise against dual relationships wherever possible. The uncertainty about when a client relationship ends means that I would advise to stay clear of pursuing the relationship to prevent harm on the sides of both