NBCC Code of Ethics 2023 (Part 2 of 8)

Introduction

• Presenter: Dr. Dawn-Elise Snipes
• Focus on NBCC Code of Ethics 2023
• Today's topics: Personal values, unavoidable harm, confidentiality, bartering, multiple relationships, and harassment

Key Areas of Ethical Focus

Personal Values

• Avoid Imposing Values:
  • Directly: Telling clients how they should think/feel
  • Indirectly: Through office decor, music, assessment questions
  • Example: Asking marital status can impose values on non-traditional relationships
• Eliciting Client Values:
  • Understand what is important to clients
  • Engage in conversations and observations
• Cultural Sensitivity:
  • Respect differences in values like independence vs interdependence, spirituality, sexuality, family dynamics

Unavoidable Harm

• Types of Harm:
  • Mandatory reporting can feel intrusive
  • Changes in relationships due to therapy
  • Dependence on therapy
• Addressing Harm:
  • Be upfront with clients about possible harm
  • Support clients through changes sensitively

Confidentiality

• Respect Client Privacy:
  • Solicit only necessary information
  • Explain the purpose of all information requests
• Mandatory Reporting:
  • Know when and what you are required to report
• Consultation and Supervision:
  • Seek supervision without disclosing client identities

Bartering

• Conditions for Bartering:
  • No possible referrals
  • Agreement is of reasonable equivalent value
  • Arrangement documented and periodically reviewed
• Challenges:
  • Ensuring fairness and equivalent value
  • Avoiding situations that may exploit clients

Multiple Relationships

• Avoid Dual/Multiple Relationships:
  • Includes roles such as neighbor, fellow board member, or social media friend
  • Be cautious with clients who are family or friends
• Ethical Challenges:
  • Potential for exploitation or appearance of exploitation
  • Maintain clear boundaries even with former clients (5-year rule)

Conclusion

• Maintaining Ethical Practices:
  • Regularly assess your practice against ethics guidelines
  • Make environments safe and respectful
• Upcoming Topics (Part 3):
  • Boundary extensions, harassment, preventing abandonment

Note: Always consult with other professionals to ensure unbiased decision-making and ethical practices.