Professional Ethics Experiences of Psychological Counselor Candidates in Individual Psychological Counseling Practices

Yıldız Önal Y., Uçar S.

11th INTERNATIONAL USBILIM SOCIAL SCIENCES CONGRESS , Çankırı, Türkiye, 27 - 30 Nisan 2026, ss.591-592, (Özet Bildiri)

  • Yayın Türü: Bildiri / Özet Bildiri
  • Basıldığı Şehir: Çankırı
  • Basıldığı Ülke: Türkiye
  • Sayfa Sayıları: ss.591-592
  • İstanbul Medipol Üniversitesi Adresli: Evet

Özet

This study investigated how prospective psychological counselors experienced the application of professional ethics during supervision within the scope of the Individual Counseling Practice I-II courses. Specifically, the study included the perspectives of prospective psychological counselors regarding the scope of the theoretical course on Professional Ethics and Legal Issues and how psychological counseling practices are incorporated into their training. Thirty prospective psychological counselors(25 women, 5 men)studying at different universities were reached using snowball sampling. Interview questions were administered to participants via Google Form. Responses were analyzed using content analysis, a qualitative research method. While five participants stated they had not experienced any ethical violations, 16 participants reported encountering ethical violations related to clients, as well as violations against other prospective psychological counselors and others. Other prospective psychological counselors were highlighted as the perpetrators of ethical violations. The analysis revealed that the understanding of professional ethics progresses through how the supervisor guides the process. In-class examples of professional ethics were illustrated within the context of confidentiality. Examples included not sharing interview transcripts with anyone other than the supervisor, proceeding with informed consent, and sharing information in group supervision without revealing the client's identity. Following this, content related to boundaries and the professional psychological counseling relationship was highlighted. This section includes examples of meeting clients outside the office, advancing a client-centered process, and acting within professional roles. In addressing ethical issues, the emphasis is on fostering mutual understanding and exchange of ideas between supervisors and prospective psychological counselors, as well as preventative measures and information aimed at preventing potential ethical violations. It was also observed that the emphasis placed on professional ethics in the supervision process, albeit limited, was mutually supportive and facilitative. While prospective psychological counselors showed awareness of their ability to integrate professional ethics into their practices, it was also noted that they need more comprehensive content and content adjustments to reduce confusion as they transition into professional life. This also indicates a need for more specific research focused on the application of professional ethics throughout the process. Keywords: professional ethics, psychological counseling training, supervision