๐ 10 KEY TERMS โ PROFESSIONAL COUNSELING & ETHICS
1.Confidentiality
Keeping client information private unless consent or legal exceptions apply.
๐ก Hook: โWhatโs said here, stays hereโฆ unless safety/legal issues.โ
2.Privileged Communication
A legal protection that prevents counselors from being forced to disclose client info in court.
๐ก Hook: Confidentiality = ethical | Privilege = legal
3.Informed Consent
Clients must understand risks, benefits, limits of confidentiality, and their rights before treatment begins.
๐ก Hook: โNo surprises in therapy.โ
4.Duty to Warn
Obligation to warn identifiable victims if a client poses a serious threat.
๐ก Hook: Think Tarasoff case โ๏ธ
5.Duty to Protect
Broader than warnโincludes warning, hospitalizing, or taking action to prevent harm.
๐ก Hook: โProtect > just tellingโ
6.Dual Relationships
When a counselor has more than one relationship with a client (friend, business, etc.).
๐ก Hook: โ ๏ธ Risk of harm/exploitation
7. Scope of Practice
Providing services within your training, competence, and licensure.
๐ก Hook: โStay in your lane.โ
8. Competence
Ongoing responsibility to maintain skills through training, supervision, and education.
๐ก Hook: You donโt โarriveโโyou maintain.
9.Malpractice
Professional negligence that causes harm to a client.
๐ก Hook: The 4 Dโs:
- Duty
- Dereliction
- Direct cause
- Damages
10. Autonomy
Respecting the clientโs right to make their own decisions.
๐ก Hook: โItโs THEIR life.โ
๐Dr. Meka๐