...Ethics in Counseling Abigail T. Kitts Liberty University Abstract Introduction Ethics in therapy is currently a hot topic in the counseling realm. Especially ethics as they relate to group therapy. Group therapy is a common form of therapy utilized by many counselors. This type of therapy encompasses an entirely different set of ethics than that of individual counseling. There are numerous reasons for why a counselor may elect to use group therapy rather than individual therapy. The American Counseling Association (ACA) has developed a code of ethics for the counseling professional in order to provided a universal guideline for all counselor to abide by. Within the code of ethics provided by the ACA are codes that cover areas of the counseling relationship, confidentiality and privacy, professional responsibility, relationships with other professionals, evaluation, assessment, and interpretation, supervision, training, and teaching, research and publication, distance counseling, technology, and social media. All of these areas are further divided into subcategories in order to include all aspects ethics in the counseling relationship. Each of these sections provided by the ACA are important to a counselor practicing in a group setting, however, not all of these areas are applicable to the group counselor. Ethical Issues Unique to Group Therapy Group counseling offers many relationships, in order to assist an individual in growth and problem-solving...
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...ethics in group counseling. This author will define what group ethics is according to the psychological organizations such as the American Counseling Association (ACA), and the Association of Specialist in Group Work (ASGW). This author will also address what the American Association of Christian Counselor (AACC) has to say about the ethical standards for Christian Counseling. To effectively practice ethically group therapy a counselor needs to internalize the morals, values, and behavioral makeup of each individual within the group. This paper will also look at the comparison between group and individual psychotherapy and why a counselor will choose between the two. The group processes in both individual and group psychotherapy are a positive catalyst for personal growth within the individual psyche. Whereas group therapy tends to address interactional and interpersonal, individual therapy usually looks at the intra-psychic. Group therapy has been proven to have effective treatment benefits in the treatment with various psychological and personal problems. The final section will address the ethical challenges this author may face and her biblical perspective in counseling, her personal leadership qualities and her personal approach to group counseling. Counseling in our society has gone through multiple changes in the recent years. More individuals are looking into receiving support and guidance in the way of group counseling. Due to the increase in counseling theories...
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...Group therapy has gained popularity in a gradual but steady way in the contemporary society. The main feature of group therapy is group counseling, which involves people forming support groups for self-help and support about a common problem. A therapist engages a group in planned counseling sessions by using a custom made programmed for them. The group’s proper existence, progress and ethics are of great importance for it is a reflection of the groups conduct in their relation. Basically, ethics give a definition of the agreed upon do’s and don’ts in the group activity .It therefore stands that, group’s discipline is a great determiner for group success or failure. Of worth importance is group trust among the members of group members of the therapy for maintenance of credibility in their activities. Without maintaining trust within a group, it is not possible to achieve cohesion (Baum, 2005). Trust is essential in group therapy because it will enhance openness and the members will be able to share freely. Indeed, this is an essential ethical issue that should be considered in group therapy. Respect and professionalism are key elements that a therapist should possess in handling group members while maintaining a firm leadership of the group. Therapists are the chief custodians of the group; hence, they need to cultivate a culture of ensuring that every member is treated with respect and honor. This is feasible in ensuring that the rights and liberties of every person are observed...
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...Ethics in Group Counseling vs. Individual Therapy: Who’s up for Group? Annette Taft HSCO December 6, 2015 Abstract This research paper will explore the professional code of ethics that a counselor should designate to the group or individual in order to conduct an affective session. Ethics are specific guidelines that help a professional operate with educational, cultural and scientific value applied to a particular setting. In this paper will also explore the ethical issues that can influence group therapy, individual counseling, and the reasons why one setting may be beneficial then the other. Key words: Ethics, Professional, In this busy robust world counseling has become the norm. People have become to use counseling as a way of settling disputes, talking out their own issues, or just support for a friend. Nevertheless, it transitions into the lives of society today, helping people to live functioning lives in this topsy-turvy world. Making a decision of whether to choose group counseling or individual therapy has become often a hard decision. Group counseling and individual counseling are both functional ways of therapy although the ethical practices may be different. This research paper will explore the professional code of ethics that a counselor should designate to the group or individual in order to conduct an affective session. Ethics are specific guidelines that help a professional operate with educational, cultural and scientific value applied to a...
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...On-Line Therapy BSHS 352 On-Line Therapy Like most traditional therapies, online counseling and support could have various effects on various people. Most of those who need mental health services, they have varying personal needs and not everyone could benefit from an online support. There are also people that would find what they are looking for on online mental health services. They are also who would feel more comfortable finding restorative assistance at their own homes rather than typical doctor’s visit. In the Stress Group website, an individual could find essential information in various categories such as depression, anger management, anxiety, counseling and therapy, online counseling services and herbal supplements. In each sub-directory, one can find a lot of data regarding particular illnesses which include a concise definition, medications, therapies and traditional and online support groups. The Stress Group provides to its clients various choices on counselors and therapists so that the individual can freely choose a counselor and therapist that they are most comfortable to be with. Basic information such as name, title and contact details for every counselors and therapists is provided to potential clients. Its website has the necessary information regarding the price range that would be charged for the service provided by various counselors and therapists. Most of the time, services are free at...
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...Running Head: ETHICAL CONCIDERATIONS FOR GROUP LEADERSHIP Ethical Considerations for Group leadership in Counseling David Cook Liberty University HSER 511-04 Dr. Pinkston July 4, 2014 Abstract Ethics has been in the forefront in the counseling field, especially in the recent cases of PTSD and military and family counseling. This type of family and group counseling presents new ethical considerations for professionals. Group leaders have to be aware of new updates in the code of ethics and legal responsibilities while showing empathy and leadership in the group. The viewpoints in this paper will consider those codes from the perspective of a professional Christian leader. Viewpoints will include techniques for group participation, professional training for the leader, confidentiality considerations, ethnic and cultural awareness and ethical financial practices. There will be a focus on the personal relationships within the group setting and how the leader can effectively control the ethical relationships. This paper will present a personal testimony on Christian qualities that direct leadership and ethical considerations in treatment in family healing. Ethical Considerations for Group leadership in Counseling Professional counseling and group therapy has received more recognition in the past few years and the subject of ethical practices, as a result, has become more important and relevant. Codes for ethical practices have...
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...Adlerian Therapy Abstract The Adlerian approach stresses definable stages and techniques and is widely practiced in school and institutional settings. Its popularity can be attributed to its hopefulness and its useful application in multiple settings, such as in groups or families. Even as more research needs to be conducted on its practice, this approach remains a popular way of working with people of all stages and backgrounds. It emphasizes the future, holism, and choice and focuses on the importance of childhood and behavioral goals. Ordinal family positions, lifestyle, and the importance of socialization and encouragement are a few areas that have made strong contributions to the helping professions. Named after Alfred Adler, Adlerian therapy basically highlights birth order, individual life styles, social interests, and concepts pertaining to inferiority and superiority as principle components of personality. For Adler, psychological health is determined by the level of social contribution beneficial to the greater community. Social contribution is increased through the reduction of mistaken beliefs, which frequently lead to maladaptive feelings of inferiority or superiority. Helping clients to identify and change their beliefs about self, others and life, the basic goal of the Adlerian approach helps clients to participate more in a social world. (Corey 2009) Strengths Adlerian therapy is diverse...
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...Abstract In today’s society there are many health care professionals who have to conduct group sessions. It is imperative that for the safety of every client and therapist that a thorough training in ethical standards are established. In laying the foundation for ethical standards it is essential to establish boundaries for what exactly constitutes group work. Many people within group therapies will have different ideas and opinions based upon their own interpretation, morals, beliefs, cultural influences, and personal experiences. Within a group session there is a high standard of ethical behavior to protect the members of the group, the facilitators and anyone else involved in the group dynamics. This essay will provide information about how group sessions are conducted, common ethical issues within group therapy and how these issues compare to those from individual counseling. Ethics in Groups Introduction According to Kemp (2010) therapeutic communities consist of having qualities of belonging, governance, communication, interdependence and participation and are known as groups or group counseling. Within group sessions there is a common issue that each individual are coping with. The group is encouraged by the leader to express themselves and give feedback. Each person in the group, including the leader, are to provide new ways of behaving and to tackle issues that an individual presents in a session and provide one another with an opportunity for learning more...
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...Multiculturalism: The Suppressor of Universality in all Counseling Krystin Warden Indiana University, Bloomington November 12, 2013 Abstract Multiculturalism is a widely-known issue in psychotherapy. Therapists have a hard time counseling culturally diverse clients, especially when they are unaware of their values, beliefs, and perceptions. There is debate on whether or not therapy works equally well for different populations; such as age groups, racial/ethnic groups, sexual minorities, different genders, socioeconomic class, and disabled bodies. Although some therapies might not work as well as they do with certain populations, techniques within those therapies can be taken and worked with multiple populations. Keywords: multiculturalism, psychotherapy Multiculturalism Original and traditional definitions of counseling, therapy, and mental health practice arose from a White-Euro American society; a single culture with specific norms, beliefs, and values (Sue & Sue, 2013). In other words, these long-established definitions excluded other cultures of the world. Our knowledge in such topics stems all the way back to a society that took up 5% of the world’s population, therefore we are not taking into account the other 95% of the world’s beliefs and values that also play a role in therapy (Sue & Sue, 2013). What is considered to be “good therapy” in context is in actuality “good therapy” to only the society whom the context originated from, giving misrepresentation...
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...Grief Counseling, Counselor Competence, and a Christian Perspective Liberty University Abstract Grief is a common universal experience that everyone is faced with at some point in their lives. In today’s society, more people are turning to professional grief counselors for help dealing with his or her loss through acceptance in order to move forward in their lives. Different types of grief are discussed, as well as different strategies, interventions, and techniques used depending of the level of distress. Everyone handles grief differently and grieves in different ways for different lengths of time, requiring different counseling interventions. Grief counseling classes or training is not currently a part of curriculum guidelines, leaving the question “Are grief counselors competent to counsel grieving individuals?” This question is answered, and the benefit of trained grief counselors is explored. In a culturally diverse world, counselor consideration of culture is equally important in grief counseling. The paper ends with a Biblical and Christian Counselor perspective on grief counseling theories and practices. Grief Counseling, Counselor Competence, and a Christian Perspective Grief occurs in response to a loss including death, separation from a loved one, losing a job, kids leaving home, divorce, or a move. It is a natural response to death or loss. Ober, Granello, and Wheaton (2012) define grief as, “the emotion generated by an experience of...
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... Group Therapy Comparison 11 April 2012 Dr. Stephanie White Introduction Chemical dependency represents a unique challenge for therapists in providing treatment. Although various models for treatment have been applied to this group, discerning what works requires a more extensive review of what has been noted regarding treatments and outcomes. Using this as a foundation for investigation, the current research examines individual and group therapy interventions for patients struggling with chemical dependency. Through a careful examination of what has been noted regarding both types of interventions it will be possible to make some recommendations for providing therapy to this treatment group. Group and Individual Therapy for Chemical Dependency A review of interventions provided for individuals struggling with chemical dependency indicates that a majority of interventions for this group are delivered in a group setting. For instance, McKay and Hiller-Sturmhofel (2011) assert that the Minnesota Model (12-step program) is commonly used in addictions counseling and treatment and involves a group environment. According to these authors, 12-step programs along with self-help groups typically form the foundation for outpatient counseling and care that is provided to individuals diagnosed with substance use disorders (SUDs). Although outpatient treatment for patients with chemical dependency is typically group-based, research...
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...in Group and Individual Sessions Liberty University Abstract In today’s culture more individuals are beginning to look for leadership and/or help with individual problems or concerns from therapists. This paper will compare therapy with a group vs. therapy in an individual session. Looking at the possible barriers and or challenges being therapists may possibly experience throughout the sessions they are facilitating. The paper will discuss the efficiency as well as the inefficiency of both group and individual therapy. It is very imperative for therapists to apply moral ethics in their practice. Study from several academic periodicals, trainings and textbook understandings are noted features for this paper. Groups The implementations of ethics in counseling is not to micromanage and/or try to inform someone of how to do their job, it is provided in order to help counselors and other professionals maintain standards within the profession one is in and it is the standard of behavior or action in relation to others. “A code of ethics for most professional organizations or associations is designed to articulate the standards of practice for a group of people.” (Kocet, 2006). Although ethics have many definitions, they are all intertwined to state the same meaning. According to Jacobs (2012), “Most ethical problems and situations deal with therapy and growth groups, although...
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...Ethics Paper: Individual or Group Therapy HSER 511 Liberty University Abstracts The paper researches the ethical issues faced in group counseling. It also shows a comparison of individual and group counseling. The paper discusses issue of confidentiality, and how it affects group counseling. Confidentiality is considered cornerstone to counseling (Kocet 2006). It is very important for the counselor to reinsure that the client understands confidentiality policies. When dealing with adolescents, confidentiality rules and regulations are the same as adults. Counselors are bound by the same rules and regulations to keep the client’s (the minor) records privileged, but in cases of immediate danger or harm to others the counselor can disclose information to the minor’s parent. I think that I was direct leader, and I utilize several of the qualifications and skills that I learned in the class. Ethics Paper: Individual or Group Therapy When seeking help, it is very difficult to decide what type of therapy to choose. Because we have different situations and problems, the decision to choose individual or group therapy could be a very hard one. Many clients choose to benefit from both individual and group therapy. Groups can be a valuable resource to clients and helping them work out their...
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...Online Therapy BSHS/352 February 3,2014 Online Therapy Therapy can be seen as a way for a client to work through an issue in their life. A client may find that they don't feel comfortable sitting in an office with a therapist discussing their issues or concerns but that they would rather obtain therapy by accessing the Internet and utilizing online therapy. With modern technology it makes it much easier to access different forms of online therapy. Online therapy has increased in recent years. Many individuals are looking for assistance from a therapist and have found that with online therapy they can do it from the convenience of their own home. A client takes into consideration the cost of the online therapy as well as their ability to get online and fit it into their busy schedule. When a client first looks into online therapy they will encounter many different online their fists available to meet their needs. It is the clients responsibility to research the online therapist as well as the services they have to offer client. You'll also need to research how the therapist will secure the information that they would be given to the therapist. It is also the clients responsibility to research the disadvantages and advantages of the online therapy that they will be receiving. Online therapies researched The first online therapy site and I've research was online their human factor Masha Godkin (Godkin 2013). She is based...
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...Experiential Family Group Therapy Experiential Family Group Therapy Melanie Davis Columbia College In today’s world, many people seek professional therapy or counseling for a limited amount of time in order to deal with different life crises, they may experience. Others seek professional help for the majority of their lives in order to deal with a psychological disorder. Earlier this year I was served with divorce papers. This entitles me to long hours of counseling, to help me understand and deal with my situation. Although I have had some marriage counseling in the past, the majority has been subsequent to being diagnosed with depression. I have done individual counseling, marriage and family counseling too. And most recently, I am currently taking a course titled Working with Groups, at Columbia College. It discusses the different types of therapy. Needless to say, it is very interesting to know the different "features" of group therapy and the different therapy techniques, and be able to recognize and better understand certain therapy sessions. All of the information on the different types of therapies has helped me to more fully understand my own personal life crises and situations. This brings me to Experiential Family Therapy. Experiential therapy comes from the humanistic side of psychology, which focuses on the immediate, here-and-now experience. This paper will give a brief background of Family Therapy and critique the various family systems approaches dealing...
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