Which ethical guidelines should school counselors adhere to?

The American School Counselor Association (ASCA) Ethical Standards are specifically developed for school counselors to guide their professional conduct. These standards outline the responsibilities that school counselors have toward students, parents, colleagues, and the profession itself. They focus on issues such as confidentiality, professional competence, and the importance of advocating for students' well-being.

By adhering to these ethical standards, school counselors ensure that they are promoting a safe and supportive environment for students while also navigating the complexities of counseling relationships and educational contexts. The ASCA standards provide a framework tailored to the unique challenges and responsibilities faced by school counselors, making them the appropriate guidelines for professionals in this field.

Other ethical codes listed, while important in their own contexts, do not specifically address the unique roles and responsibilities of school counselors. The National Education Association focuses more broadly on educational professionals, the American Psychological Association’s guidelines pertain to psychologists, and the American Association of University Professors is geared towards faculty in higher education. Thus, the ASCA Ethical Standards are the most relevant and practical for school counselors to adhere to in their practice.