Case+7,+Question+5

__Obtain Outside Perspective__: Whenever possible, engage in colleague consultation and/or supervision.

As stated previously, the ethical codes stress consultation with colleagues regarding ethical quandaries, and even in the absence of crises. As such, Carol Green should engage in as much consultation as possible. Though she may be the lone Pastoral Counselor in town, it's likely (at least in my thinking) that there are other counselors where she lives. COMAR, cited below, stresses that counselors should consult with others in "related professions." In other words, the fact Carol is the only Pastoral Counselor in town does not obviate the need for consultation here. What's more, in light of her inability to convince her client to refrain from talking about therapy issues in public, it might behoove Carol to get some consultation regarding her efficacy as a counselor, and determine if there are any areas in which she can improve professionally (see ACA C.2.d. below). The following is an extremely important point: because of the very, very, "small world" in which she and her colleagues live, Carol will need to take extra care to follow ACA section B.8.c immediately below. Carol should do her best to avoid disclosing her client's identity unless she is simply unable to do so. Even then, Carol must be careful to disclose information to the smallest extent possible.


 * ACA -** B.8.c (Consultation)

"When consulting with colleagues, counselors do not disclose confidential information that reasonably could lead to the identification of a client or other person or organization with whom they have a confidential relationship unless they have obtained the prior consent of the person or organization or disclosure cannot be avoided. They disclose information only to the extent necessary to achieve the purposes of the consultation."

ACA - C.2.d. (Monitor Effectivenss)

"Counselors continually monitor their effectiveness as professionals and take steps to improve when necessary. Counselors in private practice take reasonable steps to seek peer supervision as needed to evaluate their efficacy as counselors"

ACA - H.2.d (Consultation)

"When uncertain as to whether a particular situation or course of action may be in violation of the ACA Code of Ethics, counselors consult with other counselors who are knowledgeable about ethics and the ACA Code of Ethics, with colleagues, or with appropriate authorities"


 * COMAR** 10.58.03.04 Ethical Responsibility

A1. A counselor shall consult with other counselors or other relevant professionals regarding questions related to ethical obligations or professional practice."


 * AAPC Principle I** - Prologue ("we covenant to accept the following foundational premises":)

D. To seek out and engage in collegial relationships, recognizing that isolation can lead to a loss of perspective and judgment.