CODE OF ETHICS

SMHCA members adhere to the Code of Ethics of the American Mental Health Counselors Association, which states as its preamble, "Mental health counselors believe in the dignity and worth of the individual. They are committed to increasing knowledge of human behavior and understanding of themselves and others. While pursuing these endeavors, they make every reasonable effort to protect the welfare of those who seek their services, or of any subject that may be the object of study. They use their skills only for purposes consistent with these values and do not knowingly permit their misuse by others. While demanding for themselves freedom of inquiry and community, mental health counselors accept the responsibility this freedom confers: competence, objectivity in the application of skills, and concern for the best interest of clients, colleagues, and society in general. In the pursuit of these ideals, mental health counselors subscribe to the following principles:

1. Welfare of the Consumer

2. Clients' Rights

3. Confidentiality

4. Utilization of Assessment Techniques

5. Pursuit of Research Activities

6. Consulting

7. Competence

8. Professional Relationships

9. Supervisee, Student and Employee Relationships

10. Moral and Legal Standards

11. Professional Responsibility

12. Private Practice

13. Public Statements

14. Internet On-line Counseling

15. Resolution of Ethical Problems

American Mental Health Counselors Association complete Code of Ethics