Navigating the ACA Code of Ethics: A Cultural Perspective for BIPOC Counselors

This workshop will provide information regarding the NBCC ACEP Presenter Policies, ACA Advocacy Competences, and ACA Ethical Standards. This three-hour presentation delves into the 2014 American Counseling Association (ACA) Code of Ethics through a lens shaped by the cultural experiences of BIPOC male therapists.

We will explore the historical context of the code's development and examine how cultural factors influence its interpretation and application within the counseling profession. Participants will gain insights into the unique perspectives and challenges BIPOC male therapists face as they navigate ethical dilemmas in their practice.

Upon completion, participants will be able to:

• Understand the historical development of the ACA Code of Ethics and its evolution within the context of societal and cultural influences, particularly as they pertain to the experiences of BIPOC male therapists.

• Recognize how cultural background shapes the interpretation and application of ethical principles in counseling practice, with a specific focus on the unique perspectives and challenges faced by BIPOC male therapists.

• Apply strategies for promoting ethical conduct and navigating ethical dilemmas within culturally diverse counseling settings, emphasizing the importance of cultural humility, intersectionality, and sensitivity to power dynamics and privilege.

• Analyze the intersectionality of race, gender, and other identities in counseling practice and evaluate how these intersecting identities impact ethical decision-making processes for BIPOC male therapists.

• Critically examine case studies and engage in group discussions to identify ethical dilemmas commonly faced by black male therapists, applying cultural competence principles to develop appropriate strategies for ethical resolution.

• Develop a personalized plan for ongoing professional development in ethics and cultural competence, incorporating recommended resources and strategies discussed during the presentation to enhance ethical practice as a BIPOC therapist.

Dr. Michael Jones, LPC-S, NCC, BC-TMH

Biography

Dr. Jones has been a counselor educator for over a decade. He has presented at the state, regional, and national levels on ethics and multiculturalism. He is a former ACA Ethics Committee member and currently serves as the co-chair of the Arkansas Counseling Association Ethics Committee.

Dr. Michael Jones is a licensed psychotherapist. He is an interactive Reality therapist. His therapeutic approach is to provide support and practical feedback to help clients effectively address personal life challenges. He integrates value sensitive principles and research-based techniques to offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each client. With compassion and understanding, he works with each individual to help them build on their strengths and attain the personal growth they are committed to accomplishing. He provides therapy for premarital/marital issues, depression, anxiety, parenting issues, poor self-esteem, communication, and conflict resolution. He is also trained in EMDR to deal with issues of trauma.

ADA Accommodations

The Counseling Brothers of Atlanta, Inc., is dedicated to ensuring accessibility and inclusivity in all our CE programs. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), we provide reasonable accommodations to participants with disabilities to ensure their full participation in our events.

a. Requesting Accommodations: Participants who require special accommodations should contact The Counseling Brothers of Atlanta, Inc. at least two weeks prior to the event. This will allow us sufficient time to make the necessary arrangements.

b. Cancellation due to Lack of Accommodation: If a participant finds that we are unable to provide the necessary accommodations after a request has been made, they will be entitled to a full refund, regardless of the cancellation timeframe outlined in section 2.

c. Feedback and Concerns: We welcome feedback on our accommodation efforts. If you have suggestions or concerns about accessibility at our events, please reach out to our designated ADA coordinator at atlantacounselingbrothers@gmail.com.