Throughout the topics below, any reference to “counselors” can also be related to pastors, students and lay leaders. You can also infer, the ethical standards are consistent with Biblical standards and God’s virtues for all people. Yet not all of God’s standards and virtues are in code of ethics, including the condition of a person’s heart is not applicable to professional’s conduct. As Christ followers, called to counsel, both ethical conduct and the condition of the heart are a part of being surrendered to Him.

Throughout the topics that follow, references to "counselors" may also apply to pastors, counseling students, and lay leaders engaged in helping ministries. Likewise, the ethical principles discussed are generally consistent with Biblical standards and the virtues God desires for all people. At the same time, professional codes of ethics do not encompass the full scope of Biblical character and conduct. While ethical codes primarily address observable professional behavior, Scripture also emphasizes the condition of the heart, motives, attitudes, and spiritual maturity; areas that typically fall outside the jurisdiction of professional ethical standards.

For followers of Christ who are called to counsel and care for others, both ethical conduct and the condition of the heart are essential. Christian counseling ministry involves not only adherence to professional and ethical responsibilities but also a life that is continually surrendered to Christ and transformed by His character. Applying God’s Agape love to one’s life and counseling practice is ultimately the goal, along with a willingness for accountability.

Informed Consent

Informed consent is both an ethical and legal process of a therapist/provider explaining the treatment details, risks, benefits, and client rights so the client can make an informed decision before he/she starts sharing personal information. It is wise for a counselor to share an informed consent form with the client prior to the client’s arrival to the counseling session. Many providers who have a website will post their documents on their site for the client to obtain. Other providers email this form to the client once they have scheduled their initial session. CBT counselors will include the Initial Session Information form along with the informed consent.

Best practice informed consent forms contain brief statements about the nature of the counseling, along with goals and responsibilities. The provider usually provides their credentials, limits to confidentiality, fees and payment policies and the client rights to ask questions, view their records or stop attend therapy at any point without penalty. The counselor’s goal in providing this information is an ethical act of transparency, collaboration and compliance to professional codes.

Several CBT handout examples are provided, such as the

Virtual or Teletherapy

Online counseling (telehealth) or virtual counseling offers a convenient and effective way to receive care while maintaining the same professional, ethical, and legal standards as in-person counseling. In all states, licensed professional counselors, pastors and counseling students are required to uphold rigorous expectations to ensure that clients receive safe, confidential, and clinically appropriate care in a virtual setting.

All online counseling services are conducted in accordance with state laws and the ethical guidelines governing licensed professional counselors. Telehealth is not considered a lesser form of care; rather, it must meet the same standard of care as face-to-face counseling. This means that every session involves appropriate clinical assessment, thoughtful treatment planning, and ongoing evaluation of a client’s needs and progress.

Counselors are responsible for determining whether online counseling is appropriate for each individual, not based upon the provider’s preferences. Not all concerns are best addressed remotely, and when necessary, referrals or alternative services may be recommended to ensure the highest level of care.