Unit9 Discussion1
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Capella University *
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5225
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Philosophy
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Jan 9, 2024
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Uploaded by ProfessorRook5814
Write a one-paragraph counseling session describing an ethical dilemma involving
sexuality.
Ethical dilemmas can occur at any stage within the professional relationship, which is
why counselors should always be aware of the ACA code of ethics. For example, let’s say a
client comes for their first session and it is someone the counselor has had a romantic
relationship with. This could cause ethical issues if the counselor is unaware of their code of
ethics.
Write a three-paragraph description detailing how a counselor could handle this
ethical dilemma. Include the need for multicultural awareness, knowledge, and skills in
order to address the situation correctly.
The first ethical way this situation could be handled is
by abiding by the ACA code of ethics
A.5.b. Therapist are prohibited from engaging in a
counseling relationship with a person with whom they have had a previous sexual or romantic
relationship with (American Counseling Association, 2014). This could easily be handled by the
therapist explaining to the client that they are not allowed to treat he/she because it would be a
violation of ethics, but they could refer them to another counselor that is better suited to fit their
needs.
The second way this situation can be handled is by using the ACA ethical code A.5.a.
Any sexual or romantic counselor-client interactions or relationships with current clients, their
romantic partners, or their family members should be prohibited (American Counseling
Association, 2014). This means that under no circumstances should a counselor take on a new
client whom they were in a sexual relationship with. Again, this could be handled by being
transparent with the client and the counselor’s supervisor so the situation can be handled
appropriately.
The third and final way this situation can be handled is by utilizing A.5.c. This ethical
code states any sexual or romantic counselor-client interactions or relationships with former
clients, their romantic partners, or family members are prohibited for a period of five years
following the last professional contact. Sometimes counselors can see who they are treating (the
name of client) before the client comes in. In this case the counselor can go to their supervisor
and ask if the client can be transferred to a new counselor within their professional team.
American Counseling Association. (2014). Code of Ethics.
https://www.counseling.org/resources/aca-code-of-ethics.pdf
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