CPCE Professional Orientation & Ethics 2

Question 1

A counselor discovers mid-session that a client's presenting issue falls outside their area of competence. What is the most ethical course of action?

Accepted Answer

Refer the client to a qualified professional and, if needed, provide transitional support

Answer

Continue treating the client since the relationship is already established

Answer

Consult a supervisor but continue treating the client indefinitely

Answer

Terminate services immediately without explanation

Question 2

Which foundational document establishes the ethical standards most widely used by professional counselors in the United States?

Accepted Answer

The ACA Code of Ethics

Answer

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM-5-TR)

Answer

The HIPAA Privacy Rule

Answer

The Mental Health Parity Act

Question 3

A counselor is asked to provide records to a client's attorney without the client's written consent. Under HIPAA and ethical guidelines, the counselor should:

Accepted Answer

Request a valid authorization signed by the client before releasing records

Answer

Release records immediately since attorneys represent clients' interests

Answer

Release only a summary to reduce potential harm

Answer

Notify the court before providing any records

Question 4

The ethical principle of 'veracity' in counseling primarily refers to a counselor's obligation to:

Accepted Answer

Be truthful and honest with clients in all professional interactions

Answer

Protect client confidentiality at all times

Answer

Promote client autonomy in decision-making

Answer

Avoid dual relationships with clients

Question 5

A school counselor learns that a 16-year-old student is engaging in consensual sexual activity with a same-age peer. Ethically, the counselor should:

Accepted Answer

Use professional judgment, as consensual peer activity typically does not trigger mandatory reporting

Answer

Report immediately to child protective services

Answer

Notify parents without the student's knowledge

Answer

Document and report to the principal

Question 6

Which term describes the ethical dilemma when a counselor's personal values conflict with a client's lifestyle or choices?

Accepted Answer

Values conflict or value imposition risk

Answer

Countertransference boundary violation

Answer

Dual relationship tension

Answer

Cultural encapsulation

Question 7

Under the ACA Code of Ethics, informed consent must be obtained:

Accepted Answer

On an ongoing basis as the therapeutic relationship and treatment evolve

Answer

Only at the start of a formal treatment plan

Answer

Once, at the first session, in written form only

Answer

Only when using experimental techniques