References

ETHICS IN GROUP COUNSELING

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Ethics in Group Counseling Dorothy Kropf Liberty University Group Dynamics HSER 511 Dr. Gilbert Todd Vance November 25, 2010

ETHICS IN GROUP COUNSELING Abstract This essay provides information about ethics, as defined and regulated in the practice of

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counseling or therapy sessions. Furthermore, this essay looks closely at the intricacies of ethical issues in counseling and group therapies and how these compare to the ethical issues in individual therapies. It also touches on the importance of co-leadership in group therapies and the dynamics of the relationship between the leader and the co-leader. This essay also covers in great detail, the reasons why therapists prefer to conduct group therapies over individual therapies and vice versa.

ETHICS IN GROUP COUNSELING Ethics in Group Counseling Ethics – Defined

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Ethics has various meanings. Many counselors see ethics as a code of conduct or a set of moral values. Some counselors emphasize the legal principles and ramifications of certain behavior during counseling sessions, while others put a high priority on the cultural norms or societal standards brought forth within the counseling practice (Hill, 2004). Code of conduct and set of moral values go hand in hand (Hill, 2004). These are guidelines of the “do’s and don’ts” in counseling. Just as God has given us guidelines for effective and joyful leading through the ten commandments Exodus 20:1-20 (New International Version) and the examples of Christ in the New Testament, along with the epistles and letters of apostles and disciples like Paul, Matthew, Mark, Luke and John, so should the majority of the professional groups or sub-groups such as the counseling industry also have moral codes of conducts, procedures and laws. These behavioral conduct principles are geared towards counselors for high efficiency and success rates in therapy sessions (Hill, 2004). They help maintain the integrity of the counselor...