Which action is considered a breach of professional ethics in counseling?

Accepting gifts from clients is considered a breach of professional ethics in counseling because it can create a conflict of interest and disrupt the professional boundary that is essential for effective therapeutic relationships. Counselors are expected to maintain a clear separation between their professional responsibilities and personal relationships with clients. Accepting gifts can lead to feelings of indebtedness or favoritism, which may compromise the counselor's objectivity and the therapeutic process.

In contrast, offering sliding scale fees is a practice that demonstrates sensitivity to clients' financial situations, maintaining accessibility to counseling services. Maintaining transparent communication is crucial for building trust and ensuring clients fully understand their treatment. Providing referrals to other counselors is an ethical practice meant to ensure clients receive the best possible care, especially if the original counselor is unable to meet their needs. These actions uphold the professionalism and integrity expected in the counseling field, while accepting gifts undermines those principles.