Dr. Floyd Godfrey

The American Association of Christian Counselors (AACC) has developed a robust ethical code designed to ensure that Christian counselors operate with integrity, especially when serving clients from various faith backgrounds. These ethical guidelines not only guide professional conduct but also protect the spiritual and emotional wellbeing of clients, providing a trusted environment for healing and growth.

In discussing the AACC’s ethical standards, two respected professionals, Dr. David Jenkins, PsyD, and Dr. Shannae Anderson, PhD, stand out as experts in navigating ethical issues within counseling. Both are members of the AACC and have contributed to ethical discourse in the Christian counseling community. By adhering to the AACC's ethical pillars, counselors can offer compassionate care that respects both professional standards and the deep spiritual convictions of their clients.

Compassion

At the heart of Christian counseling is compassion. This involves showing love and mercy to clients in a way that reflects Christ’s love for humanity. Counselors are called to be sensitive to the emotional and spiritual needs of their clients, especially those struggling with personal or spiritual crises. Compassion ensures that counselors listen attentively and offer genuine care.

Competence

Christian counselors must be skilled and trained to handle a variety of complex issues. The AACC upholds the value of competence, ensuring that professionals are well-equipped to address mental, emotional, and spiritual problems. It promotes ongoing education, allowing counselors like Dr. Jenkins and Dr. Anderson to stay informed about the latest practices while integrating biblical principles into their work.

Consent

Informed consent is a key ethical standard. Before starting any counseling relationship, clients must understand the nature of the counseling services being offered. This includes explaining the methods, potential risks, and faith-based approach the counselor may take. The AACC ensures that Christian counselors respect the autonomy of their clients by obtaining clear, informed consent before proceeding with therapy.

Confidentiality

Maintaining confidentiality is a vital part of any counseling relationship, particularly in Christian settings where trust is foundational. Clients must feel safe sharing their deepest concerns without fear of their private information being disclosed. AACC's ethical guidelines provide strict rules to safeguard client confidentiality, allowing for secure and open communication.

Cultural Regard

In an increasingly diverse society, cultural regard has become crucial in counseling. This principle calls Christian counselors to respect the cultural, racial, and religious backgrounds of their clients. The AACC recognizes that clients may come from a variety of faith traditions, and it encourages counselors to work with sensitivity and respect, acknowledging different perspectives while remaining true to Christian values.

Case Management

Case management involves coordinating a client's care with other professionals when necessary. This ensures that clients receive comprehensive treatment. For instance, a counselor might collaborate with medical doctors, pastors, or other specialists to provide holistic care. The AACC emphasizes the importance of ethical case management, ensuring that all professionals involved maintain a client-centered approach.

Collegiality

Collegiality within the counseling community is another key pillar. The AACC encourages counselors to support and collaborate with one another, sharing wisdom and expertise to foster a strong network of Christian professionals. Both Dr. Jenkins and Dr. Anderson emphasize the importance of professional accountability, which enhances the ethical practice of counseling.

Community Presence

Lastly, community presence refers to the counselor's active involvement in the local faith community. The AACC believes that Christian counselors should be more than just professionals; they should also serve as compassionate leaders and role models in their churches and neighborhoods. By engaging with the community, counselors demonstrate Christ’s love in practical ways, offering hope and support to those in need.

Conclusion

The AACC’s eight pillars of ethical standards—Compassion, Competence, Consent, Confidentiality, Cultural Regard, Case Management, Collegiality, and Community Presence—offer a comprehensive framework for Christian counselors to follow. These guidelines protect clients, ensuring that their spiritual and emotional needs are met in a professional and faith-aligned manner. Counselors like Dr. David Jenkins and Dr. Shannae Anderson serve as exemplars of these ethical principles, helping to uphold the highest standards of Christian counseling.

As Proverbs 11:14 reminds us, "Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors, there is safety." The AACC's ethical standards ensure that clients of faith receive safe, competent, and compassionate care rooted in Christian principles.

Floyd Godfrey PhD is a Board Certified Christian Counselor and has facilitated groups within different churches and denominations over the past 30 years. He worked as a licensed counselor for 23 years and provided supervision and training for other counselors as they worked toward independent licensure. You can read more about Floyd Godfrey PhD at www.FloydGodfrey.com.