Problem
Felicia lives in a state that has adopted the ACA Code of Ethics as the state code of ethics. However, recent legislation has been enacted that allows counselors to refuse to provide services to any client that conflicts with the counselor's personal beliefs. Felicia is a student in a counseling program that requires students to abide by the code of ethics. Felicia grew up in a remote, homogenous area and was raised with very strong opinions regarding multiple issues, ranging from same-sex marriage to the rights and obligations of undocumented immigrants. Felicia works as an intern at a community agency that focuses on counseling support for impoverished families. Felicia is assigned to work with Margaret and Maria. Margaret is a United States citizen. Maria was brought to the United States from Mexico by her parents when she was less than a year old. She recently learned that she is not a U.S. citizen and that she is undocumented. Her parents never shared this information with her. Margaret and Maria are very close friends. Margaret is a lesbian, but Maria is not. They are discussing marriage because, in their state, a legal marriage will allow Maria to apply for citizenship.
What are the presenting issues in this case? What considerations should Felicia focus on? Apply an ethical decision-making model to guide Felicia's process. What should be the outcome and why?