An Introduction to Counseling

Counseling and group guidance are differentiated, and clear, definitive guides that will help the counselor determine when he/she should use counseling or when he/she should use group guidance are offered. The important distinction between counseling and psychotherapy is made, with considerable reference to the judgments of several authorities on this question. Ethics of counseling are discussed. This is a vital area for counseling, because unless an occupation determines ethical standards which are honored by its practitioners, it cannot justify the claim that it is a profession. To avoid being unethical the practitioner must first become aware of what constitutes ethical practices. It is like manners - some people omit saying "Thank you" out of ignorance, not an intent to be discourteous.