Assignment task: Peer response
APA style
200 words
David Kacsur
Janet's complaint is absolutely valid, as it relates directly to the ethical obligations outlined in the American Counseling Association (ACA) Code of Ethics. The ACA states, "Counselors practice only within the boundaries of their competence, based on their education, training, supervised experience, state and national professional credentials, and appropriate professional experience" (American Counseling Association, 2014, C.2.a). As a licensed counselor without training in addiction, attempting to treat Janet's alcohol use, even if integrated into her depression treatment, constituted a breach of these ethical boundaries.
In response to the licensing board, if this were me, I would provide thorough documentation proving that my primary focus was on Janet's depression and that any reference to alcohol use was part of her psychosocial history. This includes the intake assessment, treatment plans, and referral documentation. I would also be sure to emphasize my readiness to cooperate with any investigations, respecting the ACA Code I.1.b.
To avoid similar complaints in the future, I would strengthen informed consent protocols, clearly delineate the scope of my practice, and ensure referrals to qualified addiction professionals when dual diagnoses are present. Additionally, seeking ongoing training in addiction counseling would enhance my competence in dealing with such cases.
If this scenario involved a student, the implications would be significant. School counselors are expected to work within their areas of expertise and refer students needing specialized assistance, as outlined in the ASCA Ethical Standards: "School counselors provide counseling in a brief context and support students and families/guardians in obtaining outside services if students need long-term clinical/mental health counseling" (American School Counselor Association, 2022, A.1.5). Thus, in turn understanding one's limitations is paramount in safeguarding student welfare and ensuring ethical compliance. Need Assignment Help?
References:
American Counseling Association. (2014). 2014 ACA Code of Ethics.
American School Counselor Association. (2022). Ethical Standards for School Counselors.