Overview
This lecture covers the core values and principles that underpin ethical and effective counseling, with an emphasis on their application and importance in real-life scenarios.
Core Values of Counseling
- Respect for human dignity ensures clients are treated with empathy, compassion, and without judgment.
- Partnership requires collaboration among counselors, clients, and other disciplines for holistic healing.
- Autonomy emphasizes respecting confidentiality and allowing clients to make their own choices.
- Personal integrity means counselors act honestly and truthfully in all interactions.
- Social justice commits counselors to accept diversity and advocate for clients’ rights.
- Responsible caring recognizes every client's capacity for growth and learning.
Core Principles of Counseling
- Autonomy: Counselors support clients’ rights to self-determination and independent decision-making.
- Beneficence: Counselors act in the best interest of clients, promoting their well-being and quality of life.
- Nonmaleficence: Counselors avoid causing harm and maintain a safe, supportive environment.
- Justice: Counselors provide equal and fair treatment to every client, regardless of background.
- Fidelity: Counselors maintain trust, loyalty, and uphold the integrity of the professional relationship.
- Veracity: Counselors communicate honestly and do not deceive clients.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Autonomy — the client’s right to self-determination and free choice.
- Beneficence — acting in ways that benefit the client.
- Nonmaleficence — avoiding harm to the client.
- Fidelity — loyalty and faithfulness to the client.
- Veracity — truthfulness and honesty in communication.
- Social justice — fairness and respect for diversity in counseling.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review Lesson #1, Lesson #2.1, and Lesson #2.2 for the upcoming DIASS Summative Quiz #1.