What does ethics

mean?

moral principles
that govern a
person's behaviour
or the conducting of
an activity.
Introduction to Ethics in Guidance
and Counseling Services

Understanding the ethics of guidance and

counselling services is essential for both
practitioners and individuals seeking
support.

It involves a set of fundamental principles

and guidelines governing the conduct of
counsellors and the therapeutic process.
Ethical Principles and Standards in the Field

1 Professional Codes
Codes of ethics help counsellors adhere to
high standards and avoid ethical hazards.

2 Ethical Decision-Making
Counselors must navigate complex situations
ethically, often addressing conflicting values and
priorities.

3 Client Welfare
Guidance and counseling services operate with the
primary aim of promoting client’s well-being and
safety.
 Confidentiality and Privacy Considerations

1 Privacy Protection 2 Legal Obligations

Strict protocols ensure that Counselors are bound by laws
client information is kept regarding confidentiality, except
confidential. in specific situations.

3 Trust-Building

Respecting confidentiality fosters a safe and trusting counseling environment.

Dual Relationships and Boundaries
Professional Boundaries
Maintaining professional boundaries between counselors and
clients is crucial for ethical practice.

Ethical Dilemmas
Dual relationships present complex ethical dilemmas
requiring careful assessment and decision-making.

Maintaining Objectivity
Avoiding dual roles helps counsellors maintain objectivity and focus
on client welfare.
Informed Consent and Client Autonomy
Autonomy

Information Disclosure Client Autonomy

Counsellors explain the nature and Clients have the right to decide
purpose of counseling, the risks, their course of treatment and
and the benefits to clients. whether to participate in
counseling.

Ethical Obligations
Informed consent forms an ethical foundation, ensuring client
involvement and awareness.
 Ethical Decision-Making and Dilemmas
Supervision and
Ethical Frameworks Consultation
Ethical Complexities Counselors seek
Counselors use
established models and professional
ethical frameworks to Unique cases raise guidance and
guide decision-making. ethical dilemmas, often support to navigate
requiring creative and challenging ethical
thoughtful resolutions. issues.
Professional Competence and Ethical Practice
Practice
3
1 2 Ethical Reflection

Supervision Counselors engage in

Continuous Learning reflective practices to
Supervision and peer evaluate and enhance
review contribute to ethical awareness.
ethical awareness and
Regular training and
skill development.
education are essential
for maintaining
professional
competence.
Conclusion and Importance of Ethical
Guidelines in Counselling Services
Theoretical Foundation
Ethical principles provide the foundation
for sound counseling theories and
practices.

Client Trust Adherence to ethical guidelines fosters

trust between clients and counselors.

Professional Reputation
High ethical standards enhance the
reputation of counseling services and
practitioners.