Clinical Supervision Report: Ethical Decision-Making Process In A Duty To Warn Case

Assume you are currently Gad’s counselor and are practicing in your own state.
Identify the Problem
 Identify the main problem and related concerns to be addressed in this report in 1-2 bullets,
as if you are writing it to your supervisor for their review. This will set the stage for the
remainder of this document utilizing the embedded ethical decision-making guide. Each
bullet should be 2-3 complete sentences.
Apply Ethical Codes, State Laws, and Select one Ethical Principle of Primary Relevance
 Confidentiality is one of the major ethical codes that is implicated by this case. Paraphrase
the relevant professional ethical code and provide a reference citation. Do not quote the code
directly. (This bullet should be 1-2 complete sentences).
 Review your state laws and identify one law that impacts this case. If you do not have a duty
to warn law in your state, discuss this implication. Paraphrase the law followed by a
reference citation to the specific legal statutes from your professional counseling board. Do
not quote the law directly but paraphrase it. This bullet should be 2-3 complete sentences.
 Selecting one ethical principle (autonomy, justice, beneficence, autonomy, non-maleficence)
you believe to be the priority in this case. Use your professional judgement and tie in
resources to support your points. Each bullet should be 1-2 complete sentences.
Diversity and Inclusion Considerations
 List 1 diversity consideration (e.g., power, privilege, oppression, discrimination,
confidentiality, cultural practices, cultural identity, etc.) from the client perspective. Each
bullet should be 1-2 complete sentences.
Based on actual Pennsylvania Supreme Court case, Emerich v. Philadelphia Center for Human Development Inc.

Full Answer Section

     

Ethical Codes and State Laws:

  • Confidentiality: The American Counseling Association (ACA) Ethical Code emphasizes counselor responsibility to protect client confidentiality, except for situations where harm to self or others is a possibility [1].

  • Mandatory Reporting: Pennsylvania law mandates reporting suspected child abuse to the appropriate authorities [2]. This supersedes confidentiality in situations where a child's safety is at risk.

Primary Ethical Principle: Non-maleficence

In this case, non-maleficence (avoiding harm) is the most critical ethical principle. Failing to report suspected abuse could have devastating consequences for Gad's well-being. My professional judgment, supported by the ACA code and state law, necessitates prioritizing his safety over confidentiality.

Diversity Consideration:

  • Power imbalance: As a minor, Gad may have limited power and may feel pressured by his father's abusive behavior. It is crucial to create a safe space for him to express his concerns and empower him to feel heard and valued.

Sample Answer

   

Case Report: Gad - Ethical Considerations

Main Problem and Concerns:

  • Gad, a minor, discloses experiencing physical abuse from his father. As his counselor, I have a legal and ethical obligation to assess the risk of harm and determine appropriate interventions to ensure his safety.
  • Confidentiality is a core principle, but there's a potential conflict in this case, as child safety takes precedence.