and Answers | 2025 Update | 100% Correct
Section 1: ACA Code of Ethics - Preamble & Core Principles (Questions 1–4)
Q1: Per the ACA Code of Ethics Preamble, which of the following is identified as a primary
mission of the counseling profession?
A. Maximizing profit margins through client retention strategies
B. Promoting human dignity and fostering social justice
C. Establishing exclusive licensing boards in every jurisdiction
D. Limiting practice to evidence-based interventions only
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Correct because the ACA Code of Ethics Preamble explicitly states the profession's
mission to promote human dignity, foster social justice, protect public welfare, and uphold
ethical standards.
Q2: A client with schizophrenia refuses medication despite clear evidence of deterioration. The
counselor respects the client's decision while simultaneously working to ensure safety and
connecting the client with additional supports. Which ethical principle best describes this
counselor's approach?
A. Nonmaleficence
B. Beneficence
C. Autonomy balanced with duty to protect
D. Fidelity
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Correct because the ethical principle of autonomy requires counselors to respect
clients' right to make decisions and honor self-determination, while also balancing this with the
duty to protect when client harm to self or others is a concern.
Q3: A counseling agency charges sliding-scale fees to ensure low-income clients have equal
access to services and actively advocates for policy changes to reduce systemic barriers in the
community. These actions most clearly reflect which core ethical principle?
, A. Veracity
B. Justice
C. Fidelity
D. Nonmaleficence
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Correct because the ethical principle of justice requires fair and equitable treatment,
equal access to services, advocacy for marginalized groups, and addressing systemic barriers
that limit client access to care.
Q4: A counselor accurately represents their credentials on all professional materials, is
transparent about fees and policies, and provides clients with realistic expectations regarding
treatment outcomes. These behaviors are most consistent with which ethical principle?
A. Beneficence
B. Autonomy
C. Veracity
D. Justice
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Correct because the ethical principle of veracity requires truthfulness and honesty,
including accurate representation of qualifications, transparent communication about fees and
policies, and realistic expectations with clients.
Section 2: ACA Code of Ethics - Section A: The Counseling Relationship (Questions 5–10)
Q5: A counselor begins working with a new client and provides a written document explaining
the nature of services, risks and benefits, limits of confidentiality, fees, record-keeping policies,
and the counselor's qualifications. The counselor reviews this document verbally and answers
all client questions. According to the ACA Code of Ethics, which standard is being met?
A. Mandatory disclosure of impairment
B. Informed consent
C. Privileged communication
D. Professional advertising
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Correct because Standard A.2.a. of the ACA Code of Ethics requires counselors to
provide informed consent that explains services, rights, risks, benefits, limits of confidentiality,
fees, records, policies, and qualifications, and to obtain written consent for treatment.