In our recent clinical supervision session, we delved into the updated professional Code of Ethics (NAADAC, 2016). Regular review of ethics should be a staple in our practice, yet it often only surfaces when we’re faced with a dilemma or trying to justify a decision.
Ethics is not about doing what feels right for oneself; it's about adhering to established standards and applying them consistently. Many ethical standards are universal across social services, yet breaches still occur. As addiction counselors, we face dilemmas that, if properly addressed, can prevent ethical violations. Consider situations like hiring a former client, accepting commissions for referrals, or bartering services with clients. These are real scenarios that require careful ethical consideration. Ignoring such dilemmas can lead to ethical violations, compromising both client welfare and professional standards.
Ethics codes are designed to promote ethical deliberation. Tools such as discussion, supervision, and consultation help guide us toward ethical outcomes. While some actions are clear violations, others exist in a gray area. This is where addiction professionals can fall into the trap of situational ethics—trying to fit actions to a standard rather than letting the standard guide the actions.
Dilemmas can be resolved before they escalate into violations, protecting all parties involved. The ethical decision-making model provides a structured approach:
Identify the ethical dilemma and/or legal issues.
Apply the NAADAC/NCC AP Code of Ethics and applicable laws.
Examine the nature and dimensions of the dilemma.
Generate a list of potential options/solutions.
Consider the potential consequences of each option/solution.
Evaluate the selected options and develop a course of action.
Implement the chosen course of action.
Analyze the implementation of the plan.
Reassess if the implementation was not successful and begin the decision-making process again.
When in doubt, it's your ethical obligation to consult with others, seek supervision, and document the process and outcomes. By bringing ethical dilemmas into the open through consultation, you can prevent potentially harmful actions and ensure that your decisions align with the highest standards of your profession. This proactive approach not only protects your clients but also reinforces the integrity and trustworthiness of the entire field of addiction counseling.
Are you looking to expand your knowledge in ethics for your addiction counseling career? Explore our comprehensive online courses on ethics at our Online School of Addiction Studies. Start learning today: Explore Courses.
References
Johnson, M. (Spring 2017). Enforcing the NAADAC/NCCAP Code of Ethics. Advances in Addiction and Recovery, The Official Publication of NAADAC, the Association for Addiction Professionals, Spring 2017, pp. 8-10.
NAADAC. (2016, October). Introduction to NAADAC/NCC AP Ethical Standards. Retrieved from NAADAC Code of Ethics
NAADAC. (2016, October). NAADAC, the Association for Addiction Professionals. NCC AP: The National Certification Commission for Addiction Professionals. Code of Ethics. Approved 10.09.2016. Retrieved from NAADAC Code of Ethics PDF
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