Two Codes Of Ethics

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An Examination of Two Codes of Ethics Ginny Y. Taylor Liberty University Dr. J. Trevor Belcher COUN 501-C17 Abstract The American Counseling Association and the American Association of Christian Counselors are two highly respected organizations with compelling information regarding each of their code of ethics. It is helpful to discuss the differences and similarities between these two organization’s codes of ethics. What do these two organizations have in common in regard to their code of ethics? What do these two organizations value differently? Section One explores the general similarities and differences for each of these two organizations: the American Counseling Association and the American Association of Christian Counselors…show more content…
A10 and AACC, 2004, ES1-512-513). The ACA and the AACC code of ethics agree that fees should be known well in advance and reached an agreement based on a contract. The contract must be agreed upon between the client and the organization. Initially, policies and procedures should be disclosed. Any gifts or bartering, fees, or any tips, etc., should be mapped out and discussed. Both the AACC organization and ACA organization value the emphasis of doing no harm to the client (AACC, 2004, p. 3 section 1-110). The ACA differs from the AACC in that it discusses issues related to bartering and gifts. The following statement is from the ACA code of ethics: "Counselors may barter only if the relationship is not exploitive or harmful and does not place the counselor in an unfair advantage" (ACA, 2005). Therefore, counselors are allowed to bartering except that which is harmful or exhibits an unfair…show more content…
For example, it specifically fights against “intrusive powers” whether they be personal, corporate, governmental, or even religious (AACC Code of Ethics I-470). Counselors from both the AACC and ACA are expected to keep the client’s confidentiality to their fullest capacity possible. “Confidential client communications include all verbal, written, telephonic, audio or video-taped, or electronic communications arising within the helping relationship” (AACC, p. 11, ES1-410). Confidentiality must be maintained with clear limitations and obligations, which implies the need for both parties to trust each other within the counselor and client relationship. Both the AACC and ACA code of ethics give specific limitations based on ethical dilemmas and differing legalities. There is also special attention given to the counselor’s responsibility to protect counselees from undo harm. Appropriate disclosure may be the best option-- and even necessary in certain cases in order to protect another party. “Rapidly expanding and interlocking electronic information networks are increasingly threatening client privacy rights” (AACC, p. 13, Section 1-470).This is to ensure that the client feels he/she is able to put forth the highest level of trust towards the counselor. The counselee feels that he/she is able to be open and honest because confidentiality is
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