When counseling an adolescent or child it is important to look carefully
into the ethics of not only the clinical practice, but to be aware of the law
as well. For the consent to treat (3.01)
parent or legal guardian must give informed consent. The limitations of
confidentiality are often questioned in counseling. The code 4.02 states that a psychologist must
discuss the limits of confidentiality with whom they establish as professional
relationship with. One of the exceptions that occur within the law are within
certain states, they allow minors who are deemed mature, for example those who
are married or in the armed forces, to give their own consent for treatment. Minors in certain states are sometimes even
able to consent to treat, for sexually transmitted diseases or substance abuse. A parent who consents on the child’s behalf
has the right to know what progress is being made during a counseling session.
In terms of competence many legal and ethical debates are analyzed. Giving minors rights and self-determination when
they are less capable of understanding, would not be in the best interest of
the child or adolescent. On the other hand treating the minors as if they are incompetent,
would not promote growth and progress in counseling. This goes along with code 2.01 boundaries of competence because
being a professional the services a psychologists, should provide needs based
on a child’s education, training, and experience as well as their own areas of
competence, as the counselor. The decision making for a child or adolescent
brings up many ethical and legal considerations as well. The principle of nonmaleificence is evident when we want
to do no harm to the children, and beneficence
is shown when a counselor promotes psychological growth (Ledyard, 1998). Justice is also affirmed when a child
or adolescent has a say in the treatment process, and is able to choose the
least intrusive option. A counselor must also cooperate with other professional’s
to serve the client effectively and appropriately (3.09). Lastly a counselor for a child or adolescent must be aware
and informed of the state laws, the standards of the local community, as well
as school board policies when in a school setting. Being knowledgeable, not only
about the ethical standards of APA guidelines, but of the other legal
obligations as well, is crucial for being a successful child and adolescent counselor.
References
Ledyard, P. (1998).
Counseling Minors: Ethical and Legal Issues. Counseling and Values, 42(3),
0160-7960. doi:Academic Search Elite
Waldo, S. L., & Malley, P. (1992). Tarasoff and its progeny: Implications for the school counselor. School Counselor, 40(1), 46-54
