Ethics in Action

Linda Mario

Section III Questions (Module/Week 6)

Segment One: Managing Boundaries

1) If this was your client, what would you say and do? Be specific. Why would you respond that way?

I liked how the counselor included the client in the discussion as to why she wanted to go outside and continue the counseling session there. I too would include the client in the discussion as to why the change of environment may be beneficial to her counseling sessions. I would have to understand her reasoning as to why she thought we she thinks the professional office environment was no longer productive for her. In working in Oncology I have to deal with many cultures so I could understand that it might be uncomfortable for her maybe to be alone in an office setting versus being outside in public. Also, there is the potential that it goes against her religion or family cultural beliefs to be alone with a man in a room. I would also probe if the client had anything happen in her past that would make it uncomfortable for her to be alone with a man in a room. Ultimately if it was indeed her cultural preferences that were making her uncomfortable to be alone and I believed her intent was just that, I would think about conducting some sessions outside breaking bread.

2) What do the ACA and AACC Code of Ethics say regarding managing boundaries? What is your response to this?

The ACA and AACC code of ethics regard boundaries between client and counselor by how it affects the client. It would be unethical if a counselor crosses a boundary and caused harm or exploited the client in any way. Basically all counselors should follow the general rule that all close relations are unethical if they become counselor-client or formal lay helping relations. However, in managing boundaries dual relations may be allowable if the client is considered an arms length acquaintance and or if the client relationship is not a close one. This would require the counselor to use...