Code Of Ethics In Multicultural Practice

Ethics in Multicultural Practice

Code of Ethics

The CCPA (2020) covers the topic of culture and diversity several times throughout the code of ethics. There are several legal and ethical aspects to counselling that involve culture and diversity. The ethical guidelines in the code of ethics regarding culture and diversity refer to all cultural identities and groups. Section A12: Diversity Responsiveness highlights the importance for counsellors to be responsive and actively work to improve their awareness and sensitivity towards diversity and culture (CCPA, 2020). It is important to note that the code of ethics has provided a section to specifically highlight the ethical concerns regarding Indigenous Peoples in Canada, in Section I (CCPA,

Although many people do speak English, it may not be their first language and they may struggle with language comprehension (Shebib, 2020). As a counsellor, I must ensure my clients fully understand the information when they give consent. I must attempt to accommodate to the needs of all clients including cultural needs and language barriers (CCPA, 2020). To ensure each client has a full understanding of the information and enough information to make an informed decision, I would ask each client to explain the information back to me in their own words. This way, I can easily determine whether or not they understand the information enough to give an informed decision on whether to participate in therapy or not. Offering resources such as a translator or the choice between oral and written consent may be beneficial (Shebib,

This mainly refers to competence regarding education and career experience, but can also apply to cultural practices. Practicing cultural awareness is an important trait for a counsellor to posses, however counsellors must be mindful not to cross boundaries of cultural competence (CCPA, 2020). Section I4: Respectful Awareness of Traditional Practices encourages counsellors to be knowledgeable about traditional teachings, values, and practices of Indigenous people. Section I3: Recognition of Indigenous Diversity highlights the importance of recognizing the diversity in Indigenous groups (CCPA, 2020). There a variety of diverse tribes within Indigenous culture, and they should not all be grouped into simply “Indigenous people” (Mullen, 2019). Although it is encouraged to practice awareness and even participate in traditional practices, as counsellors we must ensure we do not overstep boundaries and appropriate culture rather than honor and respect it. Section I5: Appropriate Participation in Traditional Practices encourages counsellors to gain confirmation from cultural guides and Indigenous people about when it is appropriate to participate in traditional practices. I would not want to attempt to practice awareness in a way that looked as though I was mocking