Sanford Brown Importance Of Ethics In Human Service Presentation

Module 06 Course Project – Final PresentationYou have done an excellent job on your research thus far! Your supervisor is so impressed with your
research, she has asked you to take part in the final presentation of the program. You have been asked
to present a 2-4 minute speech as a part of the program’s closing remarks to the attendees discussing
the importance of ethics in Human Services and the value of the research to you. Make sure to address
the following:
1. What have you learned about the importance of ethics in Human Services?
2. How will this research affect your behavior as a professional?
3. What are the most important lessons you would like the attendees to take from the
conference?
The speech must be recorded. You can record the speech using a video presentation or an audio. If you
choose to submit a video presentation, ensure you are professionally dressed and present as though you
were actually in front of an audience. If you choose to submit an audio presentation, make sure to include
a PowerPoint with slides that match the audio.
*make a power point for a 2 minute presentation, I will submit the audio just make sure you do the
presentation and the speaker notes.
Additional Ethical Considerations
Informed consent
The process of informed consent is one in which the professional informs the client or patient of the
different ways that their communication, research, or findings might be used in addition to their treatment.
It is provided in writing or in an electronic document that outlines the risks of treatment and the way the
professional can use the findings.
There are federal and state regulations that outline what informed consent looks like for different
client/professional relationships. Different vocations also use the process of informed consent in a varying
ways. For example, a client receiving court ordered treatment would have to provide their informed
consent to allow the provider to share their progress with the court.
In the medical field, informed consent usually involves the patient providing the doctor with their consent
to perform a procedure after they are informed of the risks involved. There are also times where a
professional is conducting research and requests that the client or patient provide their informed consent
to participate in a study.
Distance Counseling
Distance counseling offers clients and professionals the ability hold sessions when they are unable to
meet face to face. It is equally appealing to clients and professionals as it provides more flexibility in
scheduling as they can participate in sessions right from the comfort of their home. This provides clients
with greater access to their therapists regardless of their location. It also enables therapists to provide
services to clients outside of their community. Distance counseling, also known as telecounseling or
teletherapy can occur in a variety of manners. Thanks to technology, therapists are now able to hold
sessions with clients via video conferencing, email, text message or secure software programs.
Despite the convenience of distance counseling, recognize that it may present ethical dilemmas that
might not ordinarily arise in traditional counseling setting. Consider a situation in which you have never
met the client in person. You must have measures in place that enable you to confirm their identity as you
begin each session, especially when sessions take place via text or email.
You should also complete a through intake assessment of new clients prior to offering distance
counseling services. Distance therapy may not be suitable in all situations; consider the needs of the
client when making this determination. You should also ensure you have mechanisms in place to ensure
privacy on both ends. Unlike a private office where you can ensure a closed door session, you do not
have control over the environment your client is in during sessions. It is important to have policies and
expectations in place that protect the privacy of the client.
One of the biggest concerns with distance counseling is that it enables professionals to practice across
state lines. Some states require you to be licensed in their state to provide distance counseling services.
It is recommended that even if you are client resides in a state that does not have this requirement you
make a practice of becoming aware of state laws and policies. For example, some states require you to
obtain informed consent from clients prior to beginning distance counseling. Researching different state
regulations will help to ensure you practice within the parameters of the law avoiding potential legal
ramifications. You may also want to contact your malpractice insurer to ensure your services are covered.
Many national human services organizations recommend professionals receive training prior to practicing
distance counseling. Though it may not be required, training and certification can help to ensure you are
aware of the resources available, security methods and services, and best practice recommendations in
the field.
Review the following article on Telehelp for further insight into distance counseling.
Policies and Procedures in Human Services
Organizational policies and procedures are helpful in guiding workers through ethical and legal dilemmas.
An effective policy manual can equip staff with the tools and knowledge on how to effectively serve clients
while working within the parameters and protections of the law. Policies and procedures also help to
provide the workers with an understanding of acceptable and unacceptable behaviors. This clear
communication of expectations can help foster an environment of respect, openness, and shared values
among the staff.
Good workplace policies can also help streamline the practices of the workers. Promoting consistency not
only enhances teamwork but also benefits the clients. Clients that engage different professionals within
the same organization will have a better understanding of the values, goals, and practices of the team.
Additional Ethical Guidance
In addition to the standards of ethics provided by National Organization for Human Services, there are
other ethical codes to help guide professionals in the helping profession. Regardless of the vocation you
pursue, make point to research the ethical expectations of workers in the field. Below are a few examples
of national organizations that have ethical codes and standards to help guide professionals:
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American Counseling Association
National Association of Social Workers
American Psychological Association
American Medical Association
References
Barger, T. S. (2018). Tele HELP. University Business, 21(5), 26–29. Retrieved from http:/