Ethical Principles of Psychologists and Code of Conduct - Essay Example

Based on the scenario presented, it is clear that Tom must make a decision that conforms to the standards of a professional organization guiding psychotherapy. According to the American Psychological Association (2010), psychologists are obligated to reverence the dignity as well as value each and every client or patient. Steve, as an individual, has a right to make his own decision provided it does not violate the rights of others or the constitution. In this regard, Steve has a right to treatment and therefore Tom has an obligation to treat him.

In regards to human relations, psychotherapists ought not to discriminate any client on the basis of religious conviction, sexual orientation, background, or physical or mental disability (American Psychological Association, 2010). Toms failure to treat Steve could, therefore, be construed as inequitable prejudice. According to the scenario presented, Toms religion regards homosexuality as an abomination in the eyes of the Lord. The principal difficulty that may arise for the counselor in carrying out the ethical decision relates to a violation of his religious beliefs.

Secondly, treating Steve may appear as supporting gay rights and thus going against the views of Conservative Republicans of which he is a member. The notion of justice is one of the principles that govern ethical practices in psychotherapy. As elucidated by the American Psychological Association (2010), it is the responsibility of all psychotherapists to treat all clients justly. In other words, all clients have a right to access and gain from all practices or activities related to psychotherapy.

Further, the American Psychological Association (2010) notes that psychotherapists must apply rational judgment and consequently implement preventative measures geared towards ensuring that their probable prejudice averts unfairness. Regardless of Toms reservations in regards to homosexuality, it is his responsibility as a psychotherapist to ensure his actions are just. The fact that Tom does a good job of keeping his values rather neutral in sessions may help him achieve this purpose. Concisely, psychotherapists ought to align their behavior or conduct in the course of their activities to the codes of ethics governing their practice as well as the standards of their profession.