Values and Ethics in Counselling and Psychotherapy

Understanding values and ethics is a core part of any counselling training and students need to develop an ethical awareness that they can apply throughout the counselling process. Gillian Proctor responds to this need by offering a clear introduction to the complexities of values and ethics. She examines the context for and emergence of ethics in counselling, the roots of ethical thinking in western philosophy, as well as how values and ethics impact on a professional's practice. Using case studies throughout, the book explores ethical dilemmas and issues as well as topics such as the nature of confidentiality, boundaries, autonomy versus beneficence and relational ethics. The author encourages reflective thought through a plethora of stimulating exercises and points for reflection, ensuring that the reader reflects on their personal values and understands how values are relevant to therapy. An invaluable textbook which provides the depth and breadth essential for trainees whilst remaining an accessible and thought-provoking read, Values and Ethics in Counselling and Psychotherapy equips students with the necessary tools to successfully navigate values and ethics in practice. It is the ideal introduction for trainees at any level, from those taking an introductory counselling course to those embarking on a professional training course. Also a fascinating introduction for experienced counsellors and psychotherapists to the relevance of western moral philosophy to ethical thinking. Gillian Proctor is a Clinical Psychologist and person centred therapist at Bradford District Care Trust and a research supervisor.