Examining Ethics in Individual and Group Counseling
Examining Ethics in Individual and Group Counseling
David Kelber
Liberty University
Abstract
Ethics is a foundational and guiding principle within the counseling profession. Ethics provide counselors necessary boundaries and parameters to assist them in operating successfully and responsibly for the best interests of the clients in their care. This paper will seek to examine the topic of ethics in counseling as it applies to both individual and group counseling. This paper will further expound upon the characteristics of these two unique and purpose-specific counseling methods; examining both the benefits and shortcomings of each. Ethical considerations and challenges will be also be explored in light of these two counseling disciplines. Potential approaches for effectively dealing with ethical issues will be observed through empirical case studies. The approaches provided are but a few of many available however; and are not intended to be comprehensive or exclusive. Lastly, the issue of appropriateness and qualification for both counseling methods will also be considered.
Examining Ethics in Individual and Group Counseling
The counseling field is an ever-changing and fluid environment, and new ethical issues are continually emerging. This makes counseling all the more challenging and comprehensive for even the most conscientious professional. A recent Delphi study of counseling practitioners examined the most important ethical issues facing the counseling profession (Herlihy; Dufrene. 2011, pg. 10). The study questions involved were open-ended and counselors were given the ability to contribute broad answered responses to ensure thorough research and objectivity. The research results concluded that the number one issue in the counseling field is: ensuring that counselors practice ethically and abide by the codes set forth. This ranked higher than multicultural issues, social justice, confidentiality, marital or child custody issues,
David Kelber
Liberty University
Abstract
Ethics is a foundational and guiding principle within the counseling profession. Ethics provide counselors necessary boundaries and parameters to assist them in operating successfully and responsibly for the best interests of the clients in their care. This paper will seek to examine the topic of ethics in counseling as it applies to both individual and group counseling. This paper will further expound upon the characteristics of these two unique and purpose-specific counseling methods; examining both the benefits and shortcomings of each. Ethical considerations and challenges will be also be explored in light of these two counseling disciplines. Potential approaches for effectively dealing with ethical issues will be observed through empirical case studies. The approaches provided are but a few of many available however; and are not intended to be comprehensive or exclusive. Lastly, the issue of appropriateness and qualification for both counseling methods will also be considered.
Examining Ethics in Individual and Group Counseling
The counseling field is an ever-changing and fluid environment, and new ethical issues are continually emerging. This makes counseling all the more challenging and comprehensive for even the most conscientious professional. A recent Delphi study of counseling practitioners examined the most important ethical issues facing the counseling profession (Herlihy; Dufrene. 2011, pg. 10). The study questions involved were open-ended and counselors were given the ability to contribute broad answered responses to ensure thorough research and objectivity. The research results concluded that the number one issue in the counseling field is: ensuring that counselors practice ethically and abide by the codes set forth. This ranked higher than multicultural issues, social justice, confidentiality, marital or child custody issues,
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