Code of Ethics in Counseling

Code of Ethics in Counseling Video

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Hey, guys! Welcome to this Mometrix video over ethics in counseling.

What are Ethics?

Ethics are the suggested standards of conduct based on a set of professional values and moral decision-making regarding professional behavior.

It’s important to know that the American Counseling Association has put a code of ethics in place to help protect the client, the counselor, and the community as a whole.

ACA Code of Ethics

Mission Statement

Here is the mission statement from the ACA’s Code of ethics:

“The mission of the American Counseling Association is to enhance the quality of life in society by promoting the development of professional counselors, advancing the counseling profession, and using the profession and practice of counseling to promote respect for human dignity and diversity.”

 

Purposes

The code of ethics serves six main purposes:

  1. The code sets forth the ethical obligations of ACA members and provides guidance intended to inform the ethical practice of professional counselors.
  2. The code identifies ethical considerations relevant to professional counselors and counselors-in-training.
  3. The code enables the association to clarify for current and prospective members, and for those served by members, the nature of the ethical responsibilities held in common by its members.
  4. The code serves as an ethical guide designed to assist members in constructing a course of action that best serves those utilizing counseling services and establishes expectations of conduct with a primary emphasis on the role of the professional counselor.
  5. The code helps to support the mission of ACA.
  6. The standards contained in the code serve as the basis for processing inquiries and ethic complaints concerning ACA members.

 

Sections

The ACA Code of ethics has nine primary sections that address the following areas:

  1. Section A – The Counseling Relationship
  2. Section B – Confidentiality and Privacy
  3. Section C – Professional Responsibility
  4. Section D – Relationships with Other Professionals
  5. Section E – Evaluation, Assessment, and Interpretation
  6. Section F – Supervision, Training, and Teaching
  7. Section G – Research and Publication
  8. Section H – Distance Counseling, Technology, and Social Media
  9. Section I – Resolving Ethical Issues

 
As you work toward becoming a counselor, it’s imperative that you familiarize yourself with the purpose of the code of ethics as well as with each section. Being familiar with the code of ethics can help you to orchestrate your work as a counselor in a way that is honorable and above reproach.

You should always have a code of ethics on hand in your work as a counselor, and you should review it regularly. Also, you want to be aware of any updates or changes that may affect the way that you operate as a counselor.

I hope this was helpful. See you next time!

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by Mometrix Test Preparation | Last Updated: February 25, 2025