17.9 Discussion Questions
Discussion Questions
- How can counselors maintain ethical standards when balancing client care with the financial pressures of running a private practice or working within managed care systems?
- What are the ethical implications of accepting or declining clients based on their ability to pay, insurance coverage, or other financial considerations?
- How should counselors address potential conflicts of interest that arise when managed care organizations dictate treatment plans or limit the number of sessions?
- What strategies can counselors use to ensure transparency with clients about fees, billing practices, and insurance reimbursement?
- How can counselors ethically handle situations where managed care policies conflict with their clinical judgment or the client’s best interests?
- What role does informed consent play in private practice and managed care settings, particularly regarding treatment limitations, confidentiality, and documentation requirements?
- How can counselors navigate ethical challenges related to marketing their services, such as avoiding false or misleading claims?
- What are the ethical considerations for counselors who use sliding-scale fees or pro bono services in their private practice?
- How should counselors document their work to meet ethical and legal standards while protecting client confidentiality and ensuring transparency for billing or audits?
- What steps can counselors take to maintain professional boundaries and avoid dual relationships when engaging in business practices, such as bartering or accepting referrals from personal acquaintances?