Ethical codes in marriage and family counseling organizations

Counseling

The concept of ethical behavior is one in which there is no definite perspective. Each individual has varying belief and values in regards to ethical behavior. These values and beliefs subsequently form the foundation by which the concept of "ethics" is created. This concept of ethics is then used as a basis to conduct oneself through various circumstances. What may seem unethical to one individual is indeed ethical to another. In many circumstances, a credible case can be made in distinguishing both unethical and ethical activity in regards to a certain situation. This scenario represented by the professional counselor is no different in this regard. Depending on the viewpoints and the underlying values of the individual assessing the situation, compelling points can be made for either ethical or unethical behavior. It is my contention however, that actions on the part of the counselor are indeed unethical

As a professional counselor, certain standards and policies apply to the individual. Below is a passage directly from the American Association for Christian Counselors. This organization is regarded as one the premier authorities of ethical behavior on the part of counselors. The AACC code is likewise considered one of the most comprehensive, specific, and detailed code of ethics in all counseling professions. Below is the insert regarding sexual behavior for the AACC code of ethics:

"Christian counselors refuse to condone or advocate for the pursuit of or active involvement in pre-marital and extra-marital sexual behavior by clients -- promoting an affair is never proper counsel as a solution to marital problems. We acknowledge that sex is God's good creation and a delightful gift when confined to one man and one woman in marriage. We may agree to and support the wish to work out issues of sexual behavior, identity, and attractions, but will encourage sexual celibacy or biblically proscribed sexual behavior while such issues are being addressed"

The counselor, as noted in the case had a romantic relationship with a client far after the initial consultation. The counselor also waited to confirm that the treatment was fully received by his client before preceded further, which eliminated conflicts of interests. The AACC agrees to support, "…the wish to work out issues of sexual behavior…but will encourage sexual celibacy." The word "encourage" is one in which it is difficult to provide clarity within the context of the passage. The two-year time frame gap is not important is this regard. Therefore, I believe the action by the counselor was unethical given the circumstances by which the act occurred. Furthermore, according to the AACC, sexual relations with former clients, irrespective of the time elapsed between contact, is unethical. Again, the act of having a romantic relationship with the client is not acceptable under the AACC (Stevenson, 2007).

The America Counseling Association is yet another standard setting body with considerable clout within the profession. With its inception in the 1950's, this organization has garnered much praise for its contributions to the overall counseling profession. In regards to ethical behavior the organization takes an equally strong stance as their AACC counterparts. In section A.5.a, the organization outlines its stance on relationships with clients. The passage states that sexual or romantic relationships with current clients or their family members are strictly prohibited for a period of 5 years. According to the case, the counselor waited only 2 years to pursue the relationship which was an error on his part. Furthermore, even if the time that transpired was 5 years, the counselor's behavior was yet again wrong. According to the ACA, the counselor must show forethought in regard to engagement in a romantic relationship. This forethought must encompass documentation in which the counselor reviews his potential relationship and the potential harm it may entail for the clients family. This document is another layer of documentation used to ensure that the relationship does not harm the client or those with the client's immediate sphere of influence. If it is determined that the relationship will indeed harm the individuals mentioned above, the relationship must be immediately terminated (Galassi, 1992).