ACA Code of Ethics

According to the 2014 ACA Code of Ethics: Counselors do not condone or engage in discrimination based on age, culture, disability, ethnicity, race, religion/spirituality, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status/partnership, language preference, socioeconomic status, or any basis proscribed by law. Counselors do not discriminate against clients, students, employees, supervisees, or research participants in a manner that has a negative impact on these persons.

This aspect of the code is especially important to consider as you prepare to enter the world of professional counseling.

Directions

Read the ACA Code of Ethics (see your course Resources section for a link), and a short article related to counselor preparation (http://ct.counseling.org/2012/06/judge-throws-out-counseling-students-suit-against-augusta-state/) to prepare for this assignment. You are to reflect on the following questions as part of this assignment (one or two pages).

1. What ethical standards pertain to multicultural counseling? (List the letter, number, and brief titles only)
2. What characteristics describe effective counselors? (list at least five)
3. What specific beliefs and attitudes, understandings, skills, and ethical concerns should be addressed during professional preparation for multicultural counseling?
4. How do culturally competent counselors provide a positive and supportive environment for clients of diverse backgrounds?
5. What ethical and legal consequences might a counselor face for refusing to provide counseling services to an LGBTQ client?
6. Reflect on your learning experience related to cultural competence, identity areas for personal development (1-2 paragraphs).

References:

American Counseling Association (2014). ACA Code of Ethics. Alexandria, VA: Author.