Mental Health Counselors’ Perceptions of Ethical Behaviors

This study used cross-sectional survey research to poll a national sample of counselors (N= 263) to ascertain their views on ethical and unethical practice. The authors updated Neukrug et al.’s (2011) research based on the current aca Code of Ethics (2014) and the continuing socio-environmental evolution of the counseling profession. Results show the counselors sampled disagreed mostly around the counseling relationship, values and culture, confidentiality, professional responsibility, and technology, pointing to the gray areas in the profession. Significant differences about perceptions of ethical situations exist among groups related to gender, age, and education level. The authors conclude by addressing implications concerning counselor training and awareness of ethical concerns.