ETHICS REVIEW 1
The Helpful Receptionist: An Ethical Review
Angela Jenner
School of Behavioral Sciences, Liberty University
ETHICS REVIEW 2
Abstract
This article discusses the "Helpful Receptionist" scenario, in which a counseling center's front
desk employee violates client confidentiality by disclosing a client's presence to their spouse.
Client confidentiality, a cornerstone value in mental health counseling, has been breached,
presenting severe ethical and legal concerns. This incident calls into doubt the counselor's
dedication to honest counseling, client rights protection, and informed consent. The analysis's
main takeaway is that the breach is both ethical and legal; it cites the 2014 ACA Code of Ethics,
Indiana Code Section 25-23.6-6-1, Indiana Medicaid Section 1425.10.10, and the federal law
Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act. The moral obligation of the counselor to
retain the client's loyalty and trust is emphasized by using the non-maleficence and fidelity
principles. I suggest several measures to resolve this ethical challenge, including training all
personnel on HIPAA rules, prompt action and correction, honest review and reporting, and
preventative measures based on continued education and awareness. The importance of making
ethical choices and maintaining professional standards is emphasized throughout this
presentation.
Keywords: ethics, confidentiality, well-being, privacy
