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Comparing Codes of Ethics Essays

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Comparing Codes of Ethics The American Counseling Association and the American Mental Health Counselors Association Codes of Ethics both provide guidance and direction in making ethical decisions for their members (ACA, 2005) (AMHCA, 2010). Both the ACA and the AMHCA Codes of Ethics cover a wide range of moral and ethical situations that could present themselves to mental health professionals. Both of these codes of ethics have significant impacts on the counseling profession. The tools provided by these codes of ethics ensure that mental health professionals are able to conform to the regulations set forth. They address common concerns from varying points of view. Understanding these codes of ethics is essential to all mental …show more content…

According to the AMHCA Code of Ethics, 2010, Section III.9, Commitment to Students, Supervisees and Employee Relationships, "the primary obligation of supervisors is to monitor services provided by supervisees to ensure client welfare." (p. 16) According to the AMHCA Code of Ethics, 2010, Section I.A.1.a, “the primary responsibility of mental health counselors is to respect client dignity and promote client welfare.” (p.2) Both codes of ethics have parallel stances when it comes to acting ethically in the benefit of the client’s interest. Supervisory roles are crucial in the development of counselors and ensuring the welfare of clients. Code Violations and Counselor Record Keeping Even though there are many similarities between the ACA and the AMHCA Codes of Ethics, there are also some distinct differences. One fundamental difference is the process of code violations and the way they are addressed. A second prominent difference is in the way the codes address counselor’s record keeping. According to the ACA Code of Ethics, 2005, H.1.b, “Counselors assist in the process of enforcing the ACA Code of Ethics. Counselors cooperate with investigations, proceedings, and requirements of the ACA Ethics Committee or ethics committees of other duly constituted associations or boards having jurisdiction over those charged with a violation.”(p.19) According to the AMHCA Code of

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