Counselor ethical codes, confidentiality limits, and professional practice concepts tested on the National Counselor Examination.
34 cards · basic cards · AI-written, checked twice. Edit anything.
- What organization publishes the primary Code of Ethics for professional counselors in the United States?
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American Counseling Association (ACA)- Under what circumstance can a counselor break confidentiality without a court order?
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When there is imminent danger to the client or a third party, or abuse of a minor or vulnerable adult- What is the primary purpose of informed consent in counseling?
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To ensure the client understands the goals, methods, risks, benefits, and limitations of counseling- Define dual relationship in counseling.
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A situation where a counselor has more than one type of relationship with a client, such as being both counselor and friend or counselor and employer- What does counselor competence mean?
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Having the knowledge, skills, training, and experience necessary to work effectively with a specific client population or presenting problem- Define the duty to warn.
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The legal and ethical obligation to warn a third party if a client poses a serious, foreseeable danger to them- What is privileged communication?
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A legal protection that prevents a counselor from being required to disclose client information in court proceedings- What is scope of practice for a counselor?
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The range of client populations, presenting problems, and treatment methods for which a counselor has appropriate training and competence- How long should a counselor maintain client records?
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Generally 5 to 7 years after the last session (varies by state law and agency requirements)- What must be included in an informed consent document for counseling?
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Purpose of counseling, fees, risks and benefits, limits of confidentiality, counselor qualifications, and the client's right to refuse treatment- When should a counselor refer a client to another professional?
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When the client's needs exceed the counselor's competence, when there is a conflict of interest, or when the counselor is unable to help effectively- What does the ACA code recommend about counselor-client romantic or sexual relationships?
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They are prohibited during the counseling relationship and typically for a minimum of two years after termination- Define self-disclosure in counseling.
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The act of sharing personal information or experiences from the counselor's own life with the client- When is self-disclosure appropriate in counseling?
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When it is brief, serves the client's therapeutic goals, is relevant to the client's situation, and does not shift focus to the counselor's needs- What is non-maleficence?
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The ethical principle of avoiding harm to clients, often expressed as first, do no harm
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