Code of Ethics
Codes of Ethics Comparison
COUN 501—Counselor Professional Identity, Function, and Ethics
Lakeisha Miller
Liberty University
Abstract
The primary purpose of a code of ethics is to safeguard the welfare of clients by providing what is in their best interest. It is also designed to safeguard the public and to guide professionals in their work so that they can provide the best service possible. All professional counselors are obligated to perform by a code of ethics. The American Counseling Association (ACA) provides guidance in resolving moral problems that professionals may encounter, whereas Christian counselors not only abide by the ACA Code of Ethics but also by the American Association of Christian Counselors AACC code, which promotes excellence and brings unity to Christian counselors, and gives honor to Jesus Christ. This paper will address the broad similarities and differences between the two codes, as well as comparisons in the specific areas of Confidentiality, Sexual Intimacies and Discrimination.
Codes of Ethics Comparison “A code of ethics is a systematic statement of ethical standards that represent the moral convictions and guide the practice behavior of a group (Clinton and Ohlschlager, 2002).” With that in mind, every counseling discipline has an ethics code which is continuously revised and updated to stay current with emerging issue, and to promote elevated clarity and direction to the profession. Thus, the ACA and AACC codes of ethics were both created to assist their members to better serve their clients. They also define values and behavioral standards necessary for ethical counseling. Yet while they are similar in intent, they are distinct in their foundational premise.
General Similarities and Differences Both codes stress the importance of “promoting the welfare of consumers, practicing within the scope of one’s competence, doing no harm to the client, protecting client’s confidentiality and privacy, acting
COUN 501—Counselor Professional Identity, Function, and Ethics
Lakeisha Miller
Liberty University
Abstract
The primary purpose of a code of ethics is to safeguard the welfare of clients by providing what is in their best interest. It is also designed to safeguard the public and to guide professionals in their work so that they can provide the best service possible. All professional counselors are obligated to perform by a code of ethics. The American Counseling Association (ACA) provides guidance in resolving moral problems that professionals may encounter, whereas Christian counselors not only abide by the ACA Code of Ethics but also by the American Association of Christian Counselors AACC code, which promotes excellence and brings unity to Christian counselors, and gives honor to Jesus Christ. This paper will address the broad similarities and differences between the two codes, as well as comparisons in the specific areas of Confidentiality, Sexual Intimacies and Discrimination.
Codes of Ethics Comparison “A code of ethics is a systematic statement of ethical standards that represent the moral convictions and guide the practice behavior of a group (Clinton and Ohlschlager, 2002).” With that in mind, every counseling discipline has an ethics code which is continuously revised and updated to stay current with emerging issue, and to promote elevated clarity and direction to the profession. Thus, the ACA and AACC codes of ethics were both created to assist their members to better serve their clients. They also define values and behavioral standards necessary for ethical counseling. Yet while they are similar in intent, they are distinct in their foundational premise.
General Similarities and Differences Both codes stress the importance of “promoting the welfare of consumers, practicing within the scope of one’s competence, doing no harm to the client, protecting client’s confidentiality and privacy, acting