Ethical Decision-Making Processes #4

Assignment Overview:

In the weeks that follow, each discussion board will serve as a space for you to grow and develop your understanding of the ACA Code of Ethics and the use of an ethical decision-making model, as well as practice responding to dilemmas. In early weeks, you will be typing out your responses to case studies using an ethical decision-making model, then move to verbally explaining your decisions using the decision making model, and finally culminating in several roleplay activities utilizing the role-playing model. As a counselor, you will need to be able to make quick decisions around ethical situations, so practicing now, in this slowly building way, will increase your comfort. Lean into it! It’s better to practice now in a controlled environment!

Instructions:

• This week, students will again use an ethical decision-making model to address a mini case study dilemma developed by a peer in Week 1. The instructor will chose the case study and post it to the discussion board. Students will use the ACA endorsed ethical decision making model while reviewing the case study, and apply each step of the decision-making model (referencing the selected Code of Ethics) to render a conclusion. Complete a written response to the case.
• The written response post will offer a resolution to the dilemma presented and follow the steps/guidance of the decision making model to render that resolution. Students will talk through the steps of the decision-making model used, and provide an explanation of why and how they came to render a decision regarding the dilemma presented.

Mini Ethical Dilemma To Consider This Week:

Note: Don’t forget to use and detail how you are utilizing an ethical decision making model.

Case is Here:

Tasha is a graduate counseling intern at a community mental health agency. One of her adult clients, Kayla, has been sharing increased anxiety related to a stressful romantic relationship. During a session, Kayla stated that she sometimes drives while emotionally overwhelmed and has thoughts like it wouldnt matter if I got into an accident, but she denied any intent to harm herself or others. Tasha consulted her licensed supervisor, who determined the disclosure did not indicate imminent danger and advised continued monitoring. Later, the agency director, who is not clinically trained, requested access to Kaylas session notes as part of an internal audit and implied that refusal could negatively impact Tashas standing as an intern. Tasha feels torn between protecting client confidentiality and complying with agency expectations while navigating the power imbalance of her intern role. What ethical principles should guide Tashas decision, and how should she respond to the agency directors request?

Helpful Resources:

-Read Chapter 10 from book: [Remley, T. P. & Herlihy, B. (2020). Ethical, legal, and professional issues in counseling (6th ed.). Boston, MA: Pearson.]

-Review PowerPoint attached to this order

-Review: ACA Code of Ethics Sections: All of Section H., A.2.d., B.5.b