Entering the program, I knew that ethics would be a guiding light within this profession. Like in any career, there are principles that your profession is built on to help protect all parties involved. In counseling, the depth of relationship between client and therapist provides a necessary opportunity to provide guidelines for those involved. As I have worked with clients, I have approached situations that were informed by our Code of Ethics and consultation within that space.

Having worked with youth prior to my entry to the program, I understood the importance of mandated reporting and ensuring there were boundaries within relationships. That understanding created a great foundation that being in this program helped build on. From informed consent and defining confidentiality to our clients, it is our role to be that communicator to our clients and families alike. In my own work at my internship, I have consulted with my supervisor and the Code of Ethics on different situations to ensure I was doing right by both the client and myself. 

In my ethics course, we were challenged to complete case analysis over hypothetical situations that we could encounter in our career. Surprisingly, I had recently encountered something similar ahead of writing my case analysis that helped inform my response to the assignment. Through exercises like this one, I was able to thoughtfully process the dilemma at hand. I was taught how to properly frame, reflect and consult on ethical dilemmas that will aid in my ability to protect clients and myself in my future career.