ETHICAL ISSUES

Select a topic that represents a unique ethical issue when working as a drug and alcohol counselor.  Some possible topics (although you are not limited to these) include:

A counselor who has relapsed

When a client triggers a      counselor’s relapse

Counselors in recovery

Counselor vs. sponsor

• Attending N.A./A.A. meetings (as      part of your own recovery) and running into clients or counselors you      supervise

Disclosing one’s own      addiction/recovery to a client

• Hiring a recovering client as an      employee in your program/agency

After selecting a topic, create a PowerPoint presentation that addresses the following:

• Explain your topic and why it      may be an ethical issue. (1-2 slides)

Write a case that portrays this      topic/ethical issue.  (1 slide)

• Briefly note how autonomy,      nonmaleficence, beneficence, justice, fidelity, and veracity apply to your case.    

List the Codes from Maryland Law      that apply to the case you created and explain how they apply to your case.

• Make a recommendation for how      counselors should, according to the law and ethical guidelines, handle a      case like the one you created. (1 slide)

Write a brief reflection      addressing any issues a case like this might bring up for you.  What      would be most challenging for you as the counselor if you had a case like      this?  How might your own values influence your handling of the      case?