Training Title:
Retired ~ Ethics V, Part B, Spiritual Issues in Clinical Practice

Clock Hours: 1.5

Objectives:
• Critically reflect on their own performance as ethical clinicians. • Appreciate the importance of training and competence when using spirituality. • Learn how to evaluate ones own spiritual and ethical beliefs.

Description:
Many ethical questions arise out of the incorporation of spirituality into ones clinical practice. These questions range from the appropriateness of prayer in the therapy or counseling session to informed consent between client and therapist about whether and how spiritual/religious issues are discussed. There are two types of ethical theories: "Rule" or "Principal Ethics" and "Virtue Ethics." The most obvious example for clinicians of Rule Ethics is the Code of Ethics of our particular profession. Virtue Ethics is the theory emphasizing character and virtue. This theory defines certain traits of character which are universally understood to make one a morally good person. These two speakers address the "Virtue Ethics" involved in incorporating spiritual attitudes. Edward R. Canda, M.A., MSW., Ph. D., "Spirituality Sensitive Practice," defines "Spirituality Sensitive Practice" and emphasizes separating spirituality from clinical practice is impossible and undesirable. Dennis Haynes, Ph.D., Ph.D., Counseling Psychology, "Ethics and Character," points out most mental health workers make their ethical decisions based on the policies and procedures of their agency, rather than on their own inner sense of what is right and virtuous.

Approval Bodies