Old+Q6

__Weigh Options and Consequences__: What are the possible courses of action and intended consequences? Also consider the unintended consequences. (Susan)

Mark has two courses of action: he can choose to counsel Peter on a topic about which he is unfamiliar with and holds beliefs decidedly different than Peter, or he can choose to refer Peter to a counselor better prepared to help the client. Before choosing a course of action, Mark needs to be honest with himself by answering these questions:

How fixed is my thinking about this issue? Am I able to be open about it? Am I aware of my blind spots? Could I be unwittingly biased about this subject? Am I able to be empathic with the client? Am I able to set aside my personal beliefs and deal with this like it was any loving relationship? Dp I know enough about homosexual relationships to counsel on this topic? Can I learn this information? Will the clinic allow me to counsel on this topic? Does the clinic advertise its values on this topic? If the clinic doesn't take a position on this topic, I may be legally required to provide counseling, so should I?

If I choose to counsel on this topic:

How will I know I am helping the client? If I find at some point in the middle of working with the client that I can't continue because of my personal feelings, do I refer? Would this damage the client? What steps do I take to ensure success: regular consultations with colleagues; reading; multicultural class? Do I explain my values to the client? What could be the consequences of explaining my values--client would feel unsupported and leave.

If I choose to refer on this topic:

How do I explain it to the client without damaging the client? Where should I refer this client? Do I know someone who is skilled in helping clients with these issues? Do I explain my values to the client as the reason I am referring?