What ethical guidelines must school counselors follow when implementing the ASCA National Model?

The ASCA Ethical Standards for School Counselors serve as the foundational guidelines that school counselors must adhere to when implementing the ASCA National Model. These standards are specifically designed for school counseling professionals and outline the ethical responsibilities related to professional conduct, confidentiality, informed consent, and the overall well-being of students.

Following these ethical standards is crucial because they ensure that counselors prioritize the best interests of students while delivering comprehensive school counseling programs. The standards promote accountability, professional growth, and advocacy for the academic, career, social, and emotional development of all students. They are tailored to the unique environment of schools, addressing the specific challenges and situations that school counselors face in their professional practice.

In contrast, other options such as the National Education Association Standards relate more broadly to educators and do not specifically focus on the nuances of school counseling. The Code of Federal Regulations encompasses a wide array of legal guidelines applicable to federal programs, but it doesn’t provide the specific ethical framework needed for school counselors. Similarly, the American Psychological Association Guidelines are geared towards psychologists and may not fully address the specific contexts and ethical concerns faced by school counselors in educational settings.