Theory and Practice of Counseling and Psychotherapy

Doing what is in the best interests of clients.

Looking at the relevant factors in a client’s life to identify patterns for further exploration in the counseling process.

A departure from a commonly accepted practice that could potentially benefit a client (e.g., attending a client’s wedding).

A boundary crossing that takes the practitioner out of the professional role, which generally involves exploitation. It is a serious breach that harms the client and is therefore unethical.

This is an ethical concept, and in most states therapists also have a legal duty not to disclose information about a client.

The analysis and explanation of a client’s problems. It may include an explanation of the causes of the client’s difficulties, an account of how these problems developed over time, a classification of any disorders, a specification of preferred treatment procedure, and an estimate of the chances for a successful resolution.

A counselor assumes two (or more) roles simultaneously or sequentially with a client. This may involve assuming more than one professional role or combining professional and nonprofessional roles.

To make ethical decisions, consult with colleagues, keep yourself informed about laws affecting your practice, keep up to date in your specialty field, stay abreast of developments in ethical practice, reflect on the impact your values have on your practice, and be willing to engage in honest self-examination.

Practice on techniques that have empirical evidence to support their efficacy.

The right of clients to be informed about their therapy and to make autonomous decisions pertaining to it.

The view of ethical practice that deals with the minimum level of professional practice.

Additional relationships with clients other than sexual ones.

An approach taken by practitioners who want to do their best for clients rather than simply meet minimum standards to stay out of trouble

Using data generated during treatment to inform the process and outcome of treatment.

A legal concept that generally bars the disclosure of confidential communications in a legal proceeding