case study

Professor’s thoughts on Ethical Codes Involved in this case: (2) Informed Consent à Though he is clergy, he still has a professional license and needs to ensure that all clients (and likely even congregation members) understand that this role could take precedence when things are said in confidence which would limit his ability to hear things in confidence and not report (3/4) Confidentiality and Limits àas a licensed counselor, he has mandated reporting requirements (5)Dual Relationships à How are the differences in his roles defined and understood by church members and clients? (17) Credentials should be understood by the public 

à Does his congregation have a clear understanding of the dual roles he holds and his scope of credentials? 

(28) Seek appropriate consultation/supervision when there is a dilemma

à This would be a case where he needs to seek consultation and supervision because the safety of others could be in danger. If I were his supervisor or consulting him on the case (as a licensed clinician), I would advise he discuss with the client his duty to report this situation because others may potentially be in harms way and a case of child abuse has occurred. This should have been done in the informed consent process already so that it is no surprise. He has two different roles here as clergy and a licensed clinician, but ultimately if further abuse were to continue while he had knowledge of it and did not intervene this could present legal issues and harm for others. Contacting the local (state) child abuse reporting hotline would be a priority.