Professional Conduct

Artifacts for Professional Conduct:

K.Breen-Ethical Practices and Boundaries of Counselors.docx 

Reflection:

As a School Counselor in Training (SCIT) in an elementary school, I strive to uphold ethical standards, exercise sound judgment, and be a positive role model. Maintaining confidentiality, respecting students' rights, and adhering to school policies are essential to my role. Through experiences such as navigating student disclosures and seeking appropriate interventions, I have refined my ability to balance ethical responsibilities with student well-being. Feedback from instructors and mentors has helped me establish clear professional boundaries while fostering trust and reinforcing my commitment to continuous learning and ethical practice.

Serving as a Positive Role Model in the Community

A school counselor is a role model within the school and the broader community. As an SCIT, I have taken on this responsibility by demonstrating integrity, respect, and professionalism in my interactions with students, teachers, and parents. One example is my participation in a school-wide PBIS program, where I helped facilitate activities promoting kindness, respect, and inclusivity. By actively engaging with students in these initiatives, I have reinforced positive behavior and encouraged students to develop strong social-emotional skills.

Furthermore, I have worked collaboratively with teachers and staff to address student needs and create a positive school culture. For example, I assisted in developing classroom guidance lessons that focused on conflict resolution and emotional regulation. This collaboration enhanced my competency in lesson planning and strengthened my ability to work as part of a team dedicated to student success.

Areas for Further Growth and Development

While I have made significant progress in professional conduct, I recognize areas where I can continue to grow. One area of focus is enhancing my ability to navigate complex ethical dilemmas confidently. To further develop this skill, I plan to engage in additional training on ethical decision-making and seek mentorship from experienced school counselors. Additionally, I aim to improve my advocacy skills to support students facing systemic barriers to academic and personal success.

In conclusion, my experiences as an SCIT have allowed me to cultivate professional conduct through ethical decision-making, positive role modeling, and ongoing self-reflection. By continuously striving to improve my skills and understanding of ethical practices, I am committed to becoming an effective and professional school counselor who upholds the highest standards of conduct.

Professional and Ethical Standards:

ASCA Standard: B-PF 3. Apply legal and ethical principles of the school counseling profession.

ASCA Ethical Standards for School Counselors: 

A.5. Sustaining Healthy Relationships and Managing Boundaries

B.3. Responsibilities to Self, F. Ethical Decision-Making

CACREP Standard: G. 2. 14. Legal and ethical considerations specific to school counseling

Guiding Questions:

1. What does the school counselor in training (SCIT) do to practice sound judgment and ethical behavior? 

As a school counselor in training (SCIT) in an elementary school setting, I practice sound judgment and ethical behavior by adhering to the American School Counselor Association (ASCA) Ethical Standards and my school’s policies. I ensure confidentiality while balancing the need to protect students' well-being, sharing information only when necessary for their safety. I also seek supervision and consultation from my site supervisor and experienced counselors to ensure I am making informed decisions when faced with ethical dilemmas. Additionally, I remain mindful of my professional boundaries, treating all students equitably and avoiding any dual relationships that could compromise my role. I actively engage in self-reflection and professional development to enhance my ethical decision-making skills. By prioritizing students' best interests, advocating for their needs, and maintaining integrity in my interactions, I uphold the highest standards of ethical behavior in my role as an SCIT. 

2. How is the SCIT a positive role model within the community? 

As a school counselor in training (SCIT) in an elementary school setting, I strive to be a positive role model within the community by demonstrating kindness, respect, and professionalism in all my interactions. I model appropriate behavior for students by promoting inclusivity, empathy, and problem-solving skills, encouraging them to treat others respectfully and make positive choices. Within the school and broader community, I engage in outreach efforts, collaborate with teachers and families, and support initiatives that promote student success and well-being. Additionally, I maintain a positive and ethical online presence, understanding that my actions inside and outside of school reflect my role as a mentor and advocate for students. By embodying strong character, integrity, and a commitment to student growth, I help create a supportive and encouraging environment that fosters all students' academic, social, and emotional development.