ASYNCHRONOUS ACTIVITY

I have learned from the previous meeting about the professional ethics concerning

counselors. Firs, let us define what is professional ethics. Professional Ethics are rules that

govern behavior within a context of a particular profession. As an aspiring counselor, it is vital

that I understand the rules governing the profession I chose. Positive ethics is an approach taken

by practitioners who want to do their best for clients. When we do things, always be guided that

we do this not just for ourselves but for the people that we serve. As a soon-to-be guidance

counselor, it is imminent that when I work or asses my client, ethics, not only just ethics, but

positive ethics should be practiced. There are also Fundamental Ethical Principles wherein there

are five concepts surrounding this.

 Respect for the dignity and rights of clients

 Competent caring for the well-being of clients

 Integrity and trustworthiness

 Respect for the autonomy of clients

 Commitment to avoiding harm to the client

Also, Ethical standards have been discussed. There are five principles that comprises the Ethical

Standards.

 Beneficence and nonmaleficence

This principle states that the counselor adheres in a commitment that would

promote the well-being of the client. The counselor/therapist should only act on the

interest of the client based on his/her professional assessment. In no case shall the

counselor/therapy will exploit the client regardless of the situation. Also, the
 counselor/therapy shall avoid incompetence or malpractice when he/she is in duress that

would hinder his/her capability in rendering service to the client.

 Justice

The counselor shall give fair and impartial treatment to all of his/her client as well

as give the proper and adequate service to the client. Under no circumstances shall the

counselor show any disparity or discrimination to the client in terms of the following but

not limited to gender and their affiliations. The counselor must also remember to respect

human rights and dignity.

 Being Trustworthy

The counselor must also be trustworthy enough to let the client feel secure and

that no vital information will be leaked out. Honor is an essential word in this principle.

The counselor must also act in accordance with the trust placed in them. In no case the

counselor shall act on the behalf of the client. He/she should also honor the agreements

and promises made and that confidentiality would be a word that would cover everything

between the client and the counselor.

 Autonomy

The client has the right to do things on his/her own will. The counselor should

serve as a guide and not as the cone controlling the client. It emphasizes the importance

of creating the ability of the client to be self-directing in terms of therapy and all aspects

of life. The counselor must also adhere to the idea that “it is still within the client’s

progress” and that he/she cannot interfere even if it is for the benefit. Let the client do

things on his/her own pace.

 Self-Respect

The counselor then must participate in events that would help him/her grow more

in his/her profession. The counselor should have an active engagement in life-enhancing

programs that are independent of relationships in counselling or psychotherapy.

 Boundaries of Competence

The counselor must also know their limits. If the situation escalates into a level

wherein it is beyond the expertise of the counselor, appropriate referral must be made.