Values & Ethics
Values can be described as what?
Individual beliefs that guide behavior and decisions.
Which ethical principle means “do no harm”?
Nonmaleficence
What is the first step in the Ethical Decision-Making Model?
Identify the Dilemma
What is the purpose of a professional Code of Ethics?
To provide standards that guide professional conduct and protect clients.
A counselor isn't sure how to handle an ethical issue. What should they do before making the decision alone?
Consult with a supervisor or other appropriate professional resource.
Why do people often believe their values are “right”?
They are often raised with those values through family, culture, community, and life experiences.
What does beneficence mean?
Acting to promote the client's welfare or well-being.
After identifying the dilemma, what should the counselor consider next?
Who is affected / the stakeholders.
True or False: A counselor's good intentions automatically make a dual relationship ethical.
False
A counselor strongly disagrees with a client's personal beliefs. Should the counselor try to change the client's beliefs to match their own?
No
Ethical dilemmas are best described as what?
Situations involving competing values, responsibilities, or ethical obligations.
A counselor avoids an action because it could unnecessarily harm a client. Which principle are they applying?
Nonmaleficence.
Why is consultation important in ethical decision-making?
It reduces emotional decision-making and helps ensure ethical, legal, and agency requirements are considered.
Which is more important when counseling: imposing your personal values or following professional ethical standards?
Professional ethical standards
A client asks their counselor to leave a return to use episode out of their clinical documentation. What makes this an ethical dilemma?
Client wishes/confidentiality conflict with professional responsibility and accurate documentation.
What can happen when a counselor's personal values conflict with professional responsibilities?
An ethical dilemma can arise.
A counselor helps a client access appropriate treatment because it could improve the client's recovery. Which principle best fits?
Beneficence.
Name three things a counselor should consider when evaluating possible options.
Ethical standards, laws/policies, potential consequences/harm, client welfare, etc.
A current client offers to repair their counselor's car cheaply because the counselor cannot afford a repair shop. What ethical concern should immediately be considered?
Dual relationship/professional boundaries.
A counselor doesn't know whether confidential information can legally be disclosed. What's a better response than guessing?
Review applicable requirements/policy and consult.
What is the main difference between values and professional ethics?
Values are personal beliefs; professional ethics are standards that guide conduct within the profession.
What is the difference between beneficence and nonmaleficence?
Beneficence focuses on promoting good/client welfare; nonmaleficence focuses on avoiding harm.
Put these in order:
Consult; Identify Options; Monitor & Evaluate; Identify the Dilemma; Decide & Document.
Identify the Dilemma → Identify Options → Consult → Decide & Document → Monitor & Evaluate.
Which would raise a serious CAADE ethical concern: maintaining professional boundaries, consulting a supervisor, or entering a sexual/romantic relationship with a client?
Entering a sexual/romantic relationship with a client.
A counselor says, “I don't believe in MAT, so none of my clients should use it.” What major ethical issue should you recognize?
The counselor is allowing personal values/bias to influence professional practice and client care.