Course overview
This course will introduce students to the key philosophical and theoretical approaches which guide current ethical practice. Areas covered include general ethical theories and approaches that can inform ethical behaviour, relevant legislation plus codes of professional conduct and ethics, as well as specific topics such as consent, confidentiality and privacy, working with vulnerable and/or marginalised populations, and some common issues and dilemmas which may arise in practice. Learning activities will include small-group workshops and role plays, online videos, as well as opportunities for individual reflection.
Course learning outcomes
- Identify and apply the ethical theories, codes of ethics, and legislation relevant to counselling and psychotherapy.
- Recognise and critically reflect on a range of ethical issues, and ethical dilemmas in contemporary counselling practice.
- Clearly articulate the ethical basis of their own values and preferences in counselling practice.
- Recognise and respond correctly and contextually to indicators of unethical or harmful behaviour in a professional counselling role.
- Develop and demonstrate their capacity to communicate ethical concepts and justify informed clinical decisions through reference to appropriate ethical theories, models and/or principles.