Ethics in Counseling and Therapy: Developing an Ethical Identity

Ethics in Counseling and Therapy develops ethical competence through an understanding of theory. Using a multidisciplinary theoretical framework that draws on theories from disciplines such as philosophy, sociology, and moral psychology, Houser and Thoma help readers to develop their own ethical identity and judgment, and to reflect on personal values. Focusing on the ethical theories upon which decision making is based, this text gives students and practitioners the tools and confidence they need to be able to make the best decision possible when confronted with real-life ethical situations. The authors also emphasize the importance of professional ethical identity development as a dynamic, ongoing process to be continuously enhanced. Self-reflection activities are suggested to promote the development of a professional ethical identity.

Rick Houser is Professor Emeritus Department of Educational Studies in Psychology, Research Methodology & Counseling, College of Education at The University of Alabama. He was Professor and Department Head in Educational Studies in Psychology (over 7 years at Department Head), Research Methodology, and Counseling at The University of Alabama. He has been Associate Dean in the College of Education at the University of Massachusetts, Boston. Also, he was a professor and department chair for several years at the University of Massachusetts, Boston. Rick Houser has taught graduate-level research courses for more than 30 years. He received his doctorate from the University of Pittsburgh in rehabilitation counseling with a minor in research methodology. He conducts research in ethical decision making, stress and coping, educational neuroscience, and neuroscience and counseling.

Steve Thoma is professor and Coordinator of the Educational Psychology Program at The University of Alabama. He received his doctorate from the University of Minnesota in 1986 with an emphasis in personality and social development and a focus on moral psychology. He conducts research on the measurement of moral judgment.