Ethics for Counselors

This is the first textbook to integrate American Counseling Association (ACA) and American Psychological Association (APA) ethical standards for programs spanning both counseling and psychology. It provides a clear, comprehensive review of the codes of ethics of both organizations, distilling the essence of each to enable counselors and psychologists to understand and engage in ethical decision making. The text also clarifies legal requirements at state and federal levels, and facilitates critical thinking about the complex intersection of legal requirements and ethical codes in a way that is easily understandable.

Focusing on key issues such as confidentiality, professional boundaries, professional and multicultural competence, social media, and situations with colleagues, the book is also unique in its inclusion of how ethical guidelines are influenced by self-care. Chapters engage readers with self-assessment questions, illustrative case vignettes, and discussion questions.

A glossary of terms helps to clarify legal and ethical terminology, and additional resources direct readers to more in-depth research. The text is ideally suited to meet the needs of both CACREP and non-CACREP programs that train counselors who work in an interprofessional climate of mental health care. It is also useful for undergraduate programs in addiction and substance abuse services counseling. The availability of an Instructor’s Manual and PowerPoints provides additional value.

Key Features:

• Reviews and integrates ethical standards and guidelines of the ACA and APA
• Designed for both CACREP and non-CACREP approved programs staffed by individuals representing both ACA and APA standards
• Focuses on confidentiality, professional boundaries, competence, social media, and responsibilities to colleagues
• Offers information on ethics of counselor self-care
• Includes case vignettes with discussion questions, self-assessment questions, and glossary
• Provides Instructor’s Manual and PowerPoint slides