Technology and Counseling

Please no plagiarism!

Technology and Counseling

In 2014, the American Counseling Association added a new section to the code of ethics titled Distance Counseling, Technology, and Social Media (Section G). This section was added in response to the tremendous changes that have occurred in this area since the 2005 code was written.

The appropriate use of technology may help counselors manage and provide quality services and programs for their clients in a more efficient manner. However, there are significant ethical challenges associated with the use of technology that counselors need to acknowledge and address.

For this Discussion, review the Learning Resources for this week. Then, select two types of technology counselors can utilize with clients. Consider one type of technology that might be useful in the provision of counseling services (e.g., video conferencing, encrypted chat, virtual reality) and one type of technology that might be used in the management of counseling services (e.g., electronic data storage, e-mail, social media). Reflect on the potential ethical challenges counselors face when integrating technology into the counseling profession.

Post by Day 3 your position on the use of technology in providing counseling services. Then, explain at least one ethical violation and one ethical challenge related to using technology for providing counseling services. Then, state your position on the use of technology in managing counseling services. Finally, explain at least one ethical implication of integrating technology for this purpose. Justify your position.
Be sure to use the Learning Resources and the current literature to support your response.

Required Resources

Readings

• Remley, T. P., Jr., & Herlihy, B. (2016). Ethical, legal, and professional issues in counseling (5th ed.). Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson.
  • Chapter 6, “Records, Subpoenas, and Technology”
    • “Subpoenas” (pp. 148-153)
  • Chapter 10, “Technology in Counseling” (pp. 245-263)
  • Chapter 15, “Supervision and Consultation”
    • “Technology Issues in Supervision” (p. 370)

  Bradley, L. J., & Hendricks, B. (2009). E-mail and ethical issues. The Family Journal, 17(3), 267–271.
  Retrieved from the Walden Library databases.

• Midkiff, D. M., & Wyatt, W. J. (2008). Ethical issues in the provision of online mental health services (etherapy). Journal of Technology in Human Services, 26(2-4), 310–332.
  Retrieved from the Walden Library databases.

• Shtarkshall, R. (2006). Responding to messages of adolescents on the Internet: Theoretical, practical, and ethical issues. American Journal of Sexuality Education, 1(4), 3–22.
  Retrieved from the Walden Library databases.

• Zack, J. S. (2008). How sturdy is that digital couch? Legal considerations for mental health professionals who deliver clinical services via the Internet. Journal of Technology in Human Services, 26(2-4), 333–359.
  Retrieved from the Walden Library databases.