Counselor Preparation Comprehensive Professional Orientation & Ethics Questions and Answers

Question 1

A counselor is presented with a complex situation that may constitute an ethical dilemma.
According to most widely-used ethical decision-making models, what is the counselor's most appropriate first step?

Accepted Answer

Clearly identify the problem and its parameters.

Answer

Consult with a trusted supervisor or colleague.

Answer

Review the relevant sections of the ACA Code of Ethics.

Answer

Document all known facts and potential courses of action.

Question 2

Which of the following statements most accurately distinguishes between professional certification and state licensure for counselors?

Accepted Answer

Licensure is a government-regulated, mandatory credential for practice, while certification is a voluntary recognition of meeting national standards by a professional body.

Answer

Certification is legally required to practice counseling, while licensure is a voluntary credential demonstrating advanced skill.

Answer

Both licensure and certification are granted by state licensing boards to protect the public from harm.

Answer

Certification is only for counselors working in schools, while licensure is required for private practice.

Question 3

A client discloses to their counselor a specific and credible threat to inflict serious physical harm upon an identifiable third party. The legal precedent established by the Tarasoff v. Regents of the University of California case creates which primary responsibility for the counselor?

Accepted Answer

To take reasonable steps to protect the intended victim.

Answer

To uphold the client's confidentiality above all other concerns.

Answer

To immediately terminate the therapeutic relationship.

Answer

To focus solely on de-escalating the client's anger within the session.

Question 4

A counselor-in-training, working under a licensed supervisor, makes a serious error in judgment that harms a client. The legal principle holding the supervisor responsible for the negligent acts of their supervisee is known as:

Accepted Answer

Vicarious liability

Answer

Privileged communication

Answer

Informed consent

Answer

Duty to warn

Question 5

A client who is a skilled carpenter offers to build custom bookshelves for a counselor's office in exchange for six counseling sessions. According to the ACA Code of Ethics, what is the counselor's primary consideration when deciding whether to engage in this bartering arrangement?

Accepted Answer

Whether the arrangement has the potential for exploitation or could harm the therapeutic relationship.

Answer

Ensuring the monetary value of the bookshelves is exactly equal to the cost of six sessions.

Answer

Confirming that bartering is a common practice in the local community.

Answer

Documenting the agreement in writing before the work or sessions begin.

Question 6

A licensed professional counselor who specializes in child anxiety is contacted by a school psychologist. The psychologist is seeking guidance and evidence-based strategies for developing a school-wide anxiety prevention program. The relationship between the LPC and the school psychologist is best described as:

Accepted Answer

Consultation

Answer

Supervision

Answer

Therapy

Answer

Mentorship

A counselor is presented with a complex situation that may constitute an ethical dilemma.According to most widely-used ethical decision-making models, what is the counselor's most appropriate first step?

A counselor is presented with a complex situation that may constitute an ethical dilemma.
According to most widely-used ethical decision-making models, what is the counselor's most appropriate first step?