Differences Between LPC And ACA Codes

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An overview of the LPC and ACA codes. The laws and ethics codes are broad and general, and some ethical dilemmas are not provided specific answers. As counselors, we must familiarize ourselves with the basic standards, and be able to read between the lines. The LPC and ACA codes tell counselors of their professional responsibilities and obligation to protect the dignity and well-being of clients. It also warns counselors of their own self-care. The specific difference between the codes is that the LPC deals more with the licensing and regulation of professional counselors, while the ACA help counselors navigate the challenging and sensitive aspects of their roles. Here are the highlights of the similarities and differences between the LPC and …show more content…

Both law and ethical code states counselors should not be “friends” with current or former clients or their relatives. However, if a counselor desires to “friend” clients or their relatives, they must adhere to the waiting period. For instance, the LPC states counselors must wait 2 years after the termination of counseling to engage in a non-therapeutic relationship with a client; and 5 years after the termination of counseling for sexual contact with a client. The ACA standard states counselors must wait 5 years after the last professional contact to engage in sexual and/or romantic relationship with former clients, their romantic partners, or their family members. This applies to both in-person and electronic interactions or relationships. The ACA standard also focuses on ethical issues in technology, online counseling, and social media. Another focus is on the imposition of counselor values on whether referrals should be made because of the counselor’s religious or other values. The ACA standards clarify that referrals are made only based on skill-based competency, not personal values. The ACA was more specific in stating the values of the counseling profession in the introduction; the enhancement of human development, diversity, and multiculturalism, social justice, the integrity of the counselor-client relationship and