Ethical+Codes+and+Considerations

In researching information for this case, it became apparent that there are two different sets of ethical codes involved: the American School Counselor Association ([|ASCA]) code of ethics and the American Counseling Association ([|ACA]) code of ethics. There are some slight differences between the two codes, considering the target population is slightly different. However, both have the client’s best interest and well being in mind. In this particular case, it went unmentioned if the counselor, Michael, communicated with the student, Jenny, about confidentiality and her rights as a minor. What Michael chose to speak with her about at the beginning of their session could play a large part in what happens or what needs to be done. The [|ASCA Code of Ethics] states that school counselors should, “Inform individual students of the purpose, goals, techniques, and rules of procedure under which they may receive counseling. Disclosure includes the limits of confidentiality in a developmentally appropriate manner. Informed consent requires competence on the part of students to understand the limits of confidentiality and therefore, can be difficult to obtain from students of a certain developmental level… (Standard A.2.a.).” This code has the expectation that the school counselors relay information about confidentiality and legal rights to the client. If a tricky situation arises in the counseling session and informed consent has been discussed and agreed upon, then the counselor will experience an easier time with carrying out ethical and legal responsibilities as opposed to a counselor who has not. The [|ACA Code of Ethics] states (Standard B.2.d), “To the extent possible, clients are informed before confidential information is disclosed and are involved in the decision making process. When circumstances require the disclosure of confidential information, only essential information is revealed.” According to the [|ASCA Code of Ethics], Standard A.2.d: “Recognize their primary obligation for confidentiality is to the students but balance that obligation with an understanding of parents’/guardians’ legal and inherent rights to be the guiding voice in their children’s lives, especially in value-laden issues. Understand the need to balance students’ ethical rights to make choices, their capacity to give consent or assent and parental or familial legal rights and responsibilities to protect these students and make decisions on their behalf." These two codes are similar in nature. It is important that a counselor (whether one is a general counselor or a school counselor) understands the rules and regulations around confidentiality of minors and is able to work with those rules while working with the client. This code is relevant to this case because it shows the importance for Michael to find the balance between letting Jenny make her own decision and having the duty to inform Jenny’s mother of the situation. The code mentions, “value-laden issues.” This also applies to the case presented because of the moral nature of the decision that is to be made. Michael has an obligation to Jenny, his client, to respect her decisions and her values, yet he has an obligation to Jenny’s mother (because she is a minor) to let their family’s values and morals be applied to the situation. In the case, Michael’s feeling and values about abortion, as well as teen pregnancy/motherhood is declared. Michael begins to have an emotional reaction to what Jenny is telling him and agrees to pause the session for the present moment. At this point, it is essential that Michael put his feelings and values aside for the sake of his client. [|ASCA Code of Ethics] states (Standard A.1.c.), “Respect student’s values, beliefs and cultural background and do not impose the school counselor’s personal values on students or their families.” The ultimate decision of whether or not Michael needs to inform Jenny’s mother needs to be made. At this point, it would be wise for Michael to begin researching the laws in the state of Georgia, and to perhaps even converse with a colleague or an attorney on this particular subject. Standard A.1.d. of the [|ASCA Code of Ethics] states that school counselors should be, “Knowledgeable of laws, regulations, and policies relating to their student and strive to protect and inform students regarding their rights.” Since Michael is unaware of what is appropriate, he may need to take the time to consult with others to find the best decision for the client and the client’s mother. Additionally, the [|ACA Code of Ethics] states (Standard C.2.e.), “Counselors take reasonable steps to consult with other counselors or related professionals when they have questions regarding their ethical obligations or professional practice.”   ACA 2005 Ethical code. Retrieved from @http://counseling.org on April 3, 2012 ASCA 2010 Ethical standard for school counselors. Retrieved from http://schoolcounselor.org on April 3, 2012  media type="file" key="Ethical Considerations.mp3" width="240" height="20"