Details for Ethical and Professional Issues

Note: This subject was re-named and re-coded from 'SSC220 Professional Consideration' to SSC222 Ethical and 'Professional Issues' in March 2023.

This subject looks at the legislative framework of human services practice and professional ethical codes of conduct as they apply to counselling, ministry and related fields of practice within Australia. This subject will familiarise you with the ethical standards expected in professional practice involving work with others as individuals or communities, the requirements of documentation, and the appropriate ways to respond to legal and/or ethical dilemmas. It will also explore a range of related professional issues with a focus on self-care.

Quick Info

Currently offered by Alphacrucis: Yes
Course code: SSC222
Credit points: 10
Subject coordinator: Catrina Henderson

Prerequisites

The following courses are prerequisites:

SSC221—Foundations of Professional Practice

Awards offering Ethical and Professional Issues

This unit is offered as a part of the following awards:

Unit Content

Outcomes

Explain the need for ethics and legal codes; explore how ethics, law and your worldview intersect; and debate on the impact each of these has on the organisation and regulation of professional practice;
Use ethical and legal language contextually and use this to record and report on cases and/or client encounters objectively; articulate the value of this to both client and practitioner;
Discuss models of ethical and legal decision-making and apply these to issues of relevance to their daily lives and fields of study;
Articulate the necessity for and benefits of professional codes of practice, supervision, self-care and on-going professional development and begin applying.

Subject Content

Introduction to Unit
Professional Ethics: Ethical Codes in Australia, Legal Issues and Mental Health
Ethical Decision Making & Ethical Frameworks
Community and Social Justice: Advocacy, System impact
Socio-Cultural Perspectives & Diversity Issues
Personal & Professional Matters, including needs, values and responsibilities
Clients Rights & the Professional’s Responsibilities, including Informed consent & confidentiality
Theory and Practice: Planning, case load, goals of counselling
Theory and Practice: Commencement to Termination of Treatment / Support
Ethical Issues in Counselling & Support: Legal, Mandatory Reporting, Referrals, Cooperation with other services
Professional Issues, including Record Storage & Telehealth
Boundaries and Dual Relationships
Supervision
Counselling & Care Contexts: Individual, Couple/Family, Group
Professional Competence, Care & Development
Case Studies and Analysis

This course may be offered in the following formats

Onsite (face-to-face)
Online (eLearning)
Intensives
Extensives

Please consult your course prospectus or enquire about how and when this course will be offered next at Alphacrucis University College.

Assessment Methods

Major Essay (30%)
Case Studies (30%)
Critical Reflection (40%)

Prescribed Text

Corey, G., Corey, M. S., & Corey, C. (2019). Issues and ethics in the helping professions (10th ed.). South Melbourne, VIC: Cengage Learning
Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia. (2017). Code of Ethics. North Fitzroy, VIC: PACFA. (available online).

Please consult your instructor prior to purchasing any textbooks.