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Professional Standards/Code of Ethics:

• Non-discrimination

Counselors must not discriminate against clients or other professionals based on factors such as race, age, gender, disability, or sexual orientation. 

• Confidentiality

Counselors must maintain confidentiality and not disclose conversations with clients without their consent. 

• Professional competence

Counselors must maintain high standards of professional competence and integrity. They should be aware of their training and capabilities, and not diagnose or treat problems outside their scope of expertise. 

• Client safety

Counselors must ensure the safety and welfare of their clients, and act in their best interest. 

• Informed consent

Counselors must obtain informed consent from clients, which includes explaining the nature of the services, potential risks, and the client's rights. 

• Professional relationships

Counselors must maintain an objective and ethical relationship with clients, and report any ethical misconduct to the appropriate authorities. 

• Collaboration

Counselors should collaborate with other professionals to best meet the needs of their clients. 

• Personal problems

Counselors should seek professional assistance for personal problems that could affect their work or clinical judgment. 

The substance abuse treatment and counseling field can present ethical dilemmas due to the emotional nature of the work and the history of misperceptions about people. Counselors should be able to objectively explore ethical dilemmas and examine their own reactions to situations.