Counseling Ethics and Behaviors Flashcards

A financial counselor discovers a recommended plan benefits their employer more than the client. What should they do?

Answer: Disclose the conflict of interest and present alternative options

Ethical counselors must disclose conflicts of interest and ensure the client's best interests are prioritized.

What is the most appropriate action when a client shares information about illegal financial activity?

Answer: Understand mandatory reporting obligations while explaining confidentiality limits

Counselors must understand their mandatory reporting obligations and should have explained confidentiality limits at the start of the relationship.

Which ethical principle requires financial counselors to only provide services within their area of expertise?

Answer: Competence

The principle of competence requires counselors to practice only within the boundaries of their training and experience.

A client asks their financial counselor to handle their investment portfolio. The counselor is not licensed. What is ethical?

Answer: Decline and refer to a qualified investment professional

Counselors must refer clients to appropriately licensed professionals for services outside their scope of practice.

How should a counselor handle when their personal values conflict with a client's financial decisions?

Answer: Respect the client's autonomy while providing objective information

Client autonomy is a core ethical principle. Counselors provide information and guidance while respecting the client's right to make their own decisions.

What is the primary purpose of maintaining detailed session notes in financial counseling?

Answer: To protect client continuity of care and demonstrate professional accountability

Documentation ensures continuity of care and demonstrates that the counselor acted professionally and ethically.