A primary ethical standard for MHP is simple “do no harm.”  While agreeing each person has a distinct moral code that informs their decision making, it is problematic to juxtapose a description of morality and ethical issues over against each other and argue for objective decision making.  There are those who argue that moral philosophy and ethics are the same.  To simplify, morals are the standards that serve as an ideal.  Ethics relates to the process of making decisions that affirm the standard.  To make decisions that compromise the standards of MHP lacks integrity and violates the standard to which we have prescribed.  Though MHP may find themselves in the gray zone, they are required to investigate “theories that can systematically describe what makes decisions right or wrong.”  (Ethics (Moral Philosophy) and Value Theory – General Philosophy – Research Guides at University of Wisconsin-Madison)  There is a thin line between the definition of morals and ethics if the ethical principles support the moral standard, thus becoming a standard.

The purpose of this presentation is to generate discussion related to a variety of ethical issues MHP will face in their practice and provide decision making models when faced with challenging decisions.  Attaining this purpose statement is predicated upon gaining knowledge, exploring theories for ethical decisions, and MHP’s ability to support their ethical decisions. The five ethical standards and principles the American Association of Counselors will serve as the primary standards used in the presentation.  They serve as the foundation for making decisions when faced with an array of issues, issues that could result in a MHP violating the ethical standards of their profession.  MHP need a set of documental guidelines that support permissible decisions and behavior.  It is imperative for MHP to have and use a model that has personal integrity, supports their profession, and is a fit with their agency.