The Principle Of Autonomy In Counselling

1. Confidentiality - The primary obligation of counselor is to safeguard information obtained on clients in the course of practice and teaching. Therefore, maintaining the privacy and confidentiality of client's are the essential requirements for a trustworthy relationship and respecting client autonomy in the counseling session. However, a written consent of the client is mandatory before any personal information is communicated to others unless in other circumstances where there is clear and imminent danger to the client, to others or to the society. Any disclosures of client'sinformation should be undertaken in such ways that best protect the trust and respect of client's autonomy. Therefore, a good recording of existing policy and practice where the counselor has breached confidentiality without the client's consent greatly assist ethical accountability. Consequently, in some situations law forbids the counselor to inform the client that confidential information has been passed to the authorities.

2. Autonomy - The principle of Autonomy in counselling emphasises the importance of developing the client’s ability to be self-directing within therapy and all aspects of life. This principle is referred as respecting client’s right to be
Justice - The principle of justice requires being fair towards all clients by respecting human rights and dignity. It is the provision of adequate services and fair treatment to all clients. It directs attention to consider thoroughly any legal requirements and to remain alert to potential conflicts between legal and ethical obligations. A commitment to fairness requires the ability to appreciate the differences between people and be committed to equality of opportunity and avoiding such discrimination against people contrary to their legitimate personal and social characteristics. Practitioners have a duty to ensure a fair provision of counselling services accessible and appropriate to the needs of potential