Identify the scenario you wish to discuss. What makes this an ethical dilemma in counseling? I selected the scenario involving Sharleen, a social work student, who is seeking guidance from her supervisor regarding her clients. She specifically wants to discuss Ilona, a domestic violence victim at the hands of her boyfriend. Ilona has been very clear that she would prefer to remain in the relationship because she loves him and wants to work it out. However, Sharleen has a personal history with domestic violence that is raising some concerns about how she is handling the issue. This scenario presents an ethical dilemma for Sharleen regarding the social worker's obligation to ensure the client’s safety and the client’s right to self-determination (NASW Code of Ethics, 2021). Sharleen needs to balance her professional duty to protect Ilona from harm while also …show more content…
First, Sharleen knows she should focus specifically on Ilona's preferences and expressed needs, while acknowledging and analyzing her own feelings and pre-conceived ideas. Ilona's perspective should be held in the highest regard as Sharleen validates the feelings of her client. While Sharleen really wants to simply tell her to "Just pack your stuff and get out of there," based on her personal history, values and research on domestic violence, this advice is suppressed, as it isn't in line with the client's goals at this time. Sharleen is advised to treat Ilona as an "expert in her own life", and she plans to provide her with community resources, such as shelters, groups and seminars where she might find hope in talking to others who have experienced a similar situation. Sharleen also empowers Ilona with safety information that can be utilized at Ilona's discretion. Generally speaking, Sharleen is advised to hold back her advice and opinions so that Ilona can maintain autonomy in making decisions about her relationship with her