Praxis School Counselor (5422) Practice Exam

If the school counselor accepts a coaching position for a team with students on their caseload, what is the most appropriate action to take?

1. Accepting the position despite the counseling relationship with the students

2. Obtaining informed consent, consultation, and supervision, and documenting the nature of the interactions that extend the boundaries of the counseling relationship

3. Asking for an assistant to coach the students on the team who are also on the school counselor's caseload

4. Informing the entire team that the counselor will have dual relationships with some of the players

The correct answer is: Obtaining informed consent, consultation, and supervision, and documenting the nature of the interactions that extend the boundaries of the counseling relationship

Accepting the position despite the counseling relationship with the students is not the most appropriate action to take because it creates a potential conflict of interest and boundary issues. It is important for the counselor to maintain ethical boundaries and avoid any potential harm to their clients. Asking for an assistant to coach the students on the team who are also on the school counselor's caseload may alleviate some concerns, but it is not enough to address the potential ethical implications. The counselor is still responsible for the well-being of their clients and should take necessary steps to maintain appropriate boundaries. Informing the entire team that the counselor will have dual relationships with some of the players may not fully address the potential ethical issues and could potentially violate confidentiality for the students on the counselor's caseload. It is important to obtain informed consent, consult with colleagues or supervisors, and document any interactions that extend the boundaries of the counseling relationship in order to address and mitigate potential ethical concerns.