SECTION B
1. What is ethics? (5)
Ethics may be defined as a system of accepted beliefs which control
behaviour, especially when such a system is based on morals.
Furthermore ethics is about:
• relationships
• working to develop a well-informed conscience
• being true to the idea of who we are and what we stand for
• being accountable
• having the courage to explore different questions.
2. What values and ethical behaviours are important in counselling? (10)
• Acknowledge that clients are unique
Every person is different, and every problem is experienced differently.
• Allow clients to freely express feelings
Clients should feel comfortable and supportive when expressing their
feelings, not discouraged.
• Be aware of the client-counsellor relationship
Counsellors should always monitor their own feelings in counselling.
This awareness enables counsellors to separate their feelings from
the the client’s feelings, and thus enables counsellors to maintain a
non-judgmental, empathic and ethical interaction.
• Show clients acceptance
An atmosphere of acceptance facilitates trust and growth.
• Show a non-judgmental attitude
The counsellor should create a space where clients can understand
and explore problems, without their thoughts, feelings or actions being
judged.
• Acknowledge that clients are responsible for themselves
Counselling should empower people to see that they have resources
to solve their own problems. The counsellor shouldn’t be the ‘rescuer’
or ‘saviour counsellor’.
• Be aware of your own limitations as a counsellor
Counsellors should be clear on when to refer clients.
• Ensure that confidentiality is maintained
It’s an ethical obligation and necessary for effective counselling that a
counsellor maintains confidentiality and anonymity when discussing
the case in supervision, or with other professionals.
3. List and briefly describe 2 approaches to ethics dealt with in the module.
Illustrate each approach with an example. (15)
3.1 The Normative Approach
• This person’s behaviour is guided by their value-system
• Their value-system is usually either philosophically or religiously based
or linked to a code of conduct (rules governing boundaries)
• Professional organisations favour a rule-based approach. Normative
ethics are universal and absolute – making decision-making more
1. What is ethics? (5)
Ethics may be defined as a system of accepted beliefs which control
behaviour, especially when such a system is based on morals.
Furthermore ethics is about:
• relationships
• working to develop a well-informed conscience
• being true to the idea of who we are and what we stand for
• being accountable
• having the courage to explore different questions.
2. What values and ethical behaviours are important in counselling? (10)
• Acknowledge that clients are unique
Every person is different, and every problem is experienced differently.
• Allow clients to freely express feelings
Clients should feel comfortable and supportive when expressing their
feelings, not discouraged.
• Be aware of the client-counsellor relationship
Counsellors should always monitor their own feelings in counselling.
This awareness enables counsellors to separate their feelings from
the the client’s feelings, and thus enables counsellors to maintain a
non-judgmental, empathic and ethical interaction.
• Show clients acceptance
An atmosphere of acceptance facilitates trust and growth.
• Show a non-judgmental attitude
The counsellor should create a space where clients can understand
and explore problems, without their thoughts, feelings or actions being
judged.
• Acknowledge that clients are responsible for themselves
Counselling should empower people to see that they have resources
to solve their own problems. The counsellor shouldn’t be the ‘rescuer’
or ‘saviour counsellor’.
• Be aware of your own limitations as a counsellor
Counsellors should be clear on when to refer clients.
• Ensure that confidentiality is maintained
It’s an ethical obligation and necessary for effective counselling that a
counsellor maintains confidentiality and anonymity when discussing
the case in supervision, or with other professionals.
3. List and briefly describe 2 approaches to ethics dealt with in the module.
Illustrate each approach with an example. (15)
3.1 The Normative Approach
• This person’s behaviour is guided by their value-system
• Their value-system is usually either philosophically or religiously based
or linked to a code of conduct (rules governing boundaries)
• Professional organisations favour a rule-based approach. Normative
ethics are universal and absolute – making decision-making more
