Ethics Blog

Client Versus Agency Dilemma

The case presented is a case of ethical dilemma that involves client versus the agency. The conflict is brought about by the contrasting needs where the agency wants the social worker to use Gestalt treatment modality because of reputation but the method is not suitable for the client. This discussion examines this dilemma and argues that priority should be given to the client since that is what is recommended by the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) Code of Ethics: Ethics Blog.

Giving Priority to Client’s Needs

According to the National Association of Social Workers (2021), the social worker’s central role is prioritizing the client’s needs and ensuring their well-being. The core values that the social worker must adhere to are service, integrity, and competence, and when the social worker adheres to these values, they will offer evidence-based care for the client’s best interest.

Another notable fact is that social workers must provide services within their areas of competence only as per ethical standard 1.4 (a) (National Association of Social Workers, 2021). Therefore, the social worker, in this case, is required to avoid using Gestalt Therapy for this client, especially when they are well aware that it can cause harm and is also a violation of the ethical standard and the principle of non-maleficence.

The Steps Needed to Make the Case

The social worker can use the following steps to make a case for client-centered care over agency.

1. The first step is to gather evidence by reviewing empirical research on the mode of therapy, Gestalt Therapy.
2. Step two should involve reviewing the ethical standards and codes of ethics and using ethical decision-making (Juujärvi et al., 2020).
3. The third step is to consult with the supervisor and peers who have experience with such issues.
4. Engage in ethical decision-making using models like Reamer’s framework (Juujärvi et al., 2020).
5. Push for alternative treatment approaches that can work better and provide the best outcomes for the client (Juujärvi et al., 2020).
6. Document the processes by keeping clear and consistent records because they can help in future ethical inquiries.
7. Finally, look for advice from other external sources.

Possible Outcomes and Implications

For the Agency

Advocating for ethical care can motivate the agency’s management to adopt flexible treatment methods that align with evolving best practices, inspiring change.

For the Client

The therapy outcomes will be excellent if the right type of treatment modality is used. However, failure to do so will discourage them from trusting therapy as a treatment. Therefore, the healthcare outcomes will be positive with the right type of treatment.

For me Professionally

My practice will not be questionable since I will have upheld integrity and competence. However, since my decision will mean challenging the agency’s policies, I may be dismissed or forced to seek work in an agency that has policies which aligns with my values.

References

National Association of Social Workers. (2021). Code of ethics of the National Association of Social Workers. https://www.socialworkers.org/About/Ethics/Code-of-Ethics/Code-of-          Ethics-English

Juujärvi, S., Kallunki, E., & Luostari, H. (2020). Ethical decision-making of social welfare            workers in the transition of services: The ethics of care and justice perspectives. Ethics    and Social Welfare, 1-19. https://doi.org/10.1080/17496535.2019.1710546

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