COUN-5225 Week 9 Discussion: Ethical Dilemmas

Introduction to COUN-5225 Week 9 Discussion: Ethical Dilemmas

This Owlisdom guide of COUN-5225 Week 9 Discussion: Ethical Dilemmas provides a structured approach for students to analyse and respond to an ethical dilemma involving sexuality in a counselling context. You will learn to apply ethical principles and multicultural awareness to a hypothetical scenario, enhancing your ability to handle complex ethical issues professionally.

Write a one-paragraph counselling session describing an ethical dilemma involving sexuality.

Writing the Ethical Dilemma

In this section of COUN-5225 Week 9 Discussion: Ethical Dilemmas, we will discuss Writing the Ethical Dilemma.

• Clearly define the ethical dilemma, ensuring it relates directly to issues of sexuality.
• Introduce hypothetical client details such as age, cultural background, and specific behaviours that contribute to the ethical complexity. 

Example

In the counselling session, the client, a 30-year-old bisexual woman, discloses her participation in a consensually non-monogamous relationship. She expresses distress over her family’s conservative views, fearing their disapproval could lead to estrangement. This situation poses an ethical dilemma: supporting the client’s autonomy in her relationships while considering the potential impact of familial alienation.

Write a three-paragraph description detailing how a counsellor could handle this ethical dilemma.

Handling the Ethical Dilemma

This section of COUN-5225 Week 9 Discussion: Ethical Dilemmas will discuss handling the Ethical Dilemma.

• First Paragraph: Discuss initial steps for ethical decision-making, including identifying relevant ethical codes from the 2014 ACA Code of Ethics.
• Second Paragraph: Explore the need for multicultural awareness, acknowledging how the client’s cultural background influences the ethical considerations.
• Third Paragraph: Propose specific counselling interventions and techniques that respect both ethical standards and the client’s cultural context.

Example

In handling the ethical dilemma presented by a client involved in a consensual, non-monogamous relationship, the counsellor must first ensure a non-judgmental, supportive environment. This approach is pivotal for exploring the client’s feelings and concerns without bias. Counsellors should employ empathetic listening and affirming responses, allowing the client to express her thoughts fully and explore her own emotions regarding both her relationship and family expectations. This step is crucial in building trust and facilitating open dialogue, which is the foundation for effective counselling.

The counsellor must also demonstrate multicultural awareness by recognising and respecting the client’s unique cultural background and its impact on her relationships and familial expectations. This involves understanding the specific cultural norms that may influence the client’s situation and applying this knowledge to guide the counselling process sensitively. By integrating cultural competence, the counsellor can help the client navigate the complexities of her identity and relationships in a way that honours her values and cultural heritage, fostering a deeper understanding and acceptance of her choices.

Finally, developing and discussing potential strategies for managing familial relationships and personal happiness is essential. The counsellor could explore various communication strategies the client might use if she chooses to disclose her relationship style to her family. Role-playing sessions can be beneficial here, providing a safe space for the client to practice conversations and prepare for possible reactions. Additionally, the counsellor should equip the client with resources and coping mechanisms to handle potential outcomes, ensuring she feels supported regardless of her family’s response. This comprehensive approach not only addresses the immediate ethical dilemma but also empowers the client to make informed decisions about her life and relationships.

Include the need for multicultural awareness, knowledge, and skills in order to address the situation correctly. Be sure to cite the 2014 ACA Code of Ethics [PDF]Links to an external site In your response.

Citing Ethical Standards

In this section of COUN-5225 Week 9 Discussion: Ethical Dilemmas, we will discuss Citing Ethical Standards.

• Reference specific sections of the ACA Code of Ethics that are relevant to the scenario.
• Explain how these ethical standards guide the counsellor’s actions and decision-making process.

Reference

ACA. (2014). ACA Code of Ethics. https://www.counseling.org/docs/default-source/default-document-library/ethics/2014-aca-code-of-ethics.pdf?sfvrsn=55ab73d0_1 

Respond to at least one of your peers’ posts whose suggestions for treatment differ from yours, comparing and contrasting your suggestions. What have you learned from comparing your posts that you can utilise to help strengthen your practice?

Peer Interaction

• Selection of Post: Choose a response that handles the ethical dilemma in a way you find potentially ineffective or ethically questionable.
• Constructive Criticism: Clearly articulate why you disagree with the approach taken. Reference specific ethical guidelines or principles that may have been overlooked or misapplied.
• Alternative Approach: Describe what you would do differently in handling the dilemma and justify why this approach would be more effective or ethically sound, using references to the 2014 ACA Code of Ethics.
• Respect and Professionalism: Ensure your response is respectful and considerate, acknowledging the complexity of ethical dilemmas and the diversity of possible interpretations and approaches.

Example

Your approach to integrating multicultural awareness into the counselling process is insightful and well-articulated. I appreciate how you emphasise the importance of cultural competence in understanding the client’s perspective and guiding the counselling process. This is crucial in ensuring that the client feels respected and understood. Your suggestion of role-playing as a preparation tool is particularly valuable as it can significantly enhance the client’s confidence in handling difficult conversations. Your holistic approach not only addresses the ethical dilemma but also supports the client in her autonomy and relationships.

Closing

Successfully navigating ethical dilemmas in counselling requires a deep understanding of ethical codes, cultural sensitivity, and practical counselling skills. This COUN-5225 Week 9 Discussion: Ethical Dilemmas exercise prepares you to integrate these elements effectively, ensuring you approach ethical challenges professionally and empathetically. By mastering these skills, you enhance your ability to provide competent and ethical care to clients facing complex issues related to human sexuality. In the next module of COUN-5225, we will explore the Week 9 Assignment on Treatment Plan.