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

ACA ethics require counselors to practice only within their competence boundaries and to refer clients when their needs exceed the counselor's scope.

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 American Counseling Association (ACA) Code of Ethics is the primary ethical standard for professional counselors in the U.S.

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

HIPAA requires written client authorization before disclosing psychotherapy records to third parties, including attorneys, unless a court order compels disclosure.

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

Veracity is the ethical commitment to honesty and truthfulness in all communications with clients and colleagues.

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

Consensual sexual activity between same-age adolescent peers generally does not meet mandatory reporting thresholds; counselors must apply professional judgment within state law.

Counselor Preparation Comprehensive Exam Practice Test

Counselor Preparation Comprehensive Exam Practice Test

CPCE Professional Orientation & Ethics 2