CAC Ethics and Professional Standards

Question 1

According to NAADAC's Code of Ethics, which principle requires counselors to promote the well-being of clients above all other concerns?

Accepted Answer

Beneficence

Answer

Beneficence obligates counselors to act in the best interests of clients and to actively promote their welfare.

Question 2

When is a counselor legally required to breach client confidentiality under the 'duty to warn'?

Accepted Answer

When a client makes a credible threat to harm an identifiable third party

Answer

Based on the Tarasoff ruling, counselors have a duty to warn identifiable potential victims when a client makes a serious, credible threat of harm.

Question 3

Under 42 CFR Part 2, substance use disorder treatment records have confidentiality protections that are:

Accepted Answer

Stricter than general HIPAA protections

Answer

42 CFR Part 2 provides heightened confidentiality protections for SUD treatment records, requiring specific consent even for disclosures permitted under standard HIPAA.

Question 4

What is the MOST appropriate initial response when a counselor realizes they are developing romantic feelings for a client?

Accepted Answer

Seek clinical supervision immediately

Answer

Seeking clinical supervision is the first appropriate step when a counselor recognizes countertransference issues, including romantic feelings toward a client.

Question 5

Which term describes an ethical violation in which a counselor uses their professional position to exploit a client for personal gain?

Accepted Answer

Boundary violation

Answer

A boundary violation occurs when a counselor crosses professional limits in a way that exploits or harms the client, such as a sexual or financial relationship.

CAC - Certified Addiction Counselor Practice Test

CAC - Certified Addiction Counselor Practice Test

CAC Ethics and Professional Standards