Acadia University School of Education

Master of Education (Counselling)

Discipline and Professional Conduct

1. The Counselling Program endorses the Code of Ethics and the Standards of Practice of CCA. Students in the Program are expected to be familiar with these codes and standards. The Program encourages students to become student members of the CCA and NSACT and other organizations as a way to learn more about current issues in professional Programs.

2. Because of its support for the Codes and guidelines documents of the professional associations, the Counselling Program takes very seriously any allegations of unprofessional or unethical student conduct. Allegations will be investigated by the Graduate Coordinator, and will be taken into account in decisions concerning a student’s continuance of the Program. In like manner, Program faculty are also expected to belong to professional organizations, and to behave in an ethical manner. Allegations of unprofessional faculty conduct will also be investigated by the Graduate Coordinator, and may be referred to the appropriate University or professional conduct committee for action.

3. Because the Counselling Program would rather deal with an ethical dilemma or problem before it becomes a matter of complaint, students in the Program who find themselves in ethical dilemmas are encouraged to consult with Program faculty.

4. The Counselling Program involves working with clients. Students who are found to be unsuitable for working with clients can be asked to withdraw from the program or to change areas of specialization. Students who withdraw or who are asked to withdraw from a practicum course must have the permission of the Counselling Program Coordinator and the Graduate Coordinator to re-register in a practicum course in the Counselling Program.

5. In addition to the CCA and NSACT, there are other counselling-related organizations which students may want to join. Typically, students will find an interest area which is compatible with their research or professional interests through their Supervisor or Advisor. Students in the Program are encouraged to attend professional association meetings, to develop networks of other counsellors and students with similar interests, and to present their own research at professional conferences. Often relationships develop at these conferences which become lifelong friendships. They may also provide information, including career information.