Running Head: COUNSELING AND SEXUAL ORIENTATION 1 COUNSELLING AND SEXUAL ORIENTATION 2 Counseling and Sexual Orientation Executive Summary In clinical practice, there is always a case to solve every day which involves making decisions which are fair or unfair. There is always a criterion to use when making such decisions and that involves ethical or moral theories and practices. Consequentialist Theory Consequentialists argue that the moral value of anything lies in its impact. The most influential type of consequentialist theory is the utilitarianism theory which was founded and promoted by Jeremy Bentham and John Stuart Mill in 18th and 19th century respectively. They argued that utility is the principle that judges moral thinking through maximization of happiness and minimization of suffering (Bentham 2012). Some welfare-utilitarian argue enhancing or lowering human welfare while preference utilitarian’s aim at establishing and satisfying human preferences in their actions. I have to use this theory in accepting the client since that is the morally right thing to do. Deontological Theory This theory criticizes the consequentialist one as it focuses on the ways of meeting one’s goals meaning it may overlook the moral importance. The theory uses rules rather than consequences in justifying an action (Ethical Theories 1983). Kant in his theory argued that rules had to comply with categorical imperative which holds that: Moral rules should be applied to all rational and moral society members but not to some. All individuals should be treated never simply as means but rather as ends themselves. Members of a moral society should have a hand in making laws and live by them. This theory is depicted in the idea of duties psychologists owe to patients on their duty of care and duty of not harming them. Casuistry This case-based reasoning focuses on practical decision-making in specific cases based on precedent but not on rules. It first identifies the specific feature of a case, makes a comparison to other similar cases and experience and tries to identify similarities and differences between them. It is useful when discussing the best patient interests (Lodge 2014). Considering other few preceding cases of homosexuality, one must handle the case recognizing gay marriage was recently legalized. Principles a. Respect for autonomy: This involves respect for decision-making abilities of individuals through enabling them to make informed decisions and allowing them to live their life so long as it does not affect the welfare of others (Anshen, 1969) b. Beneficence: This involves balancing the benefits of treatment against the risks and costs of the same. c. Non-maleficence: This involves the professional not harming the patient or avoiding causing harm. d. Justice: When dealing with others, it is important to assume equal treatment to ensure each person get their due portion. My decision would be to take in the client, however much my Christi ...

1. Running Head: COUNSELING AND SEXUAL ORIENTATION
1
COUNSELLING AND SEXUAL ORIENTATION 2
Counseling and Sexual Orientation
Executive Summary
In clinical practice, there is always a case to solve every day
which involves making decisions which are fair or unfair. There
is always a criterion to use when making such decisions and that
involves ethical or moral theories and practices.
Consequentialist Theory
Consequentialists argue that the moral value of anything lies in
its impact. The most influential type of consequentialist theory
is the utilitarianism theory which was founded and promoted by
Jeremy Bentham and John Stuart Mill in 18th and 19th century
respectively. They argued that utility is the principle that judges
moral thinking through maximization of happiness and
minimization of suffering (Bentham 2012). Some welfare-
utilitarian argue enhancing or lowering human welfare while
preference utilitarian’s aim at establishing and satisfying human
preferences in their actions. I have to use this theory in
accepting the client since that is the morally right thing to do.
Deontological Theory
This theory criticizes the consequentialist one as it focuses on
the ways of meeting one’s goals meaning it may overlook the
moral importance. The theory uses rules rather than
consequences in justifying an action (Ethical Theories 1983).
Kant in his theory argued that rules had to comply with
categorical imperative which holds that: Moral rules should be
applied to all rational and moral society members but not to
some. All individuals should be treated never simply as means
but rather as ends themselves. Members of a moral society
should have a hand in making laws and live by them. This

2. theory is depicted in the idea of duties psychologists owe to
patients on their duty of care and duty of not harming them.
Casuistry
This case-based reasoning focuses on practical decision-making
in specific cases based on precedent but not on rules. It first
identifies the specific feature of a case, makes a comparison to
other similar cases and experience and tries to identify
similarities and differences between them. It is useful when
discussing the best patient interests (Lodge 2014). Considering
other few preceding cases of homosexuality, one must handle
the case recognizing gay marriage was recently legalized.
Principles
a. Respect for autonomy: This involves respect for decision-
making abilities of individuals through enabling them to make
informed decisions and allowing them to live their life so long
as it does not affect the welfare of others (Anshen, 1969)
b. Beneficence: This involves balancing the benefits of
treatment against the risks and costs of the same.
c. Non-maleficence: This involves the professional not harming
the patient or avoiding causing harm.
d. Justice: When dealing with others, it is important to assume
equal treatment to ensure each person get their due portion. My
decision would be to take in the client, however much my
Christian values may be compromised.
Introduction
In matters that involve what is wrong and what is right just as
in the case of a strong Christian psychologist dealing with a gay
client, one may quickly take one side. It is possible to argue by
the morals of the psychologist’s religion. However, one must
first consider view the situation from an ethical standpoint.
In the case of the gay patient, I will have to decide on doing the
right thing as a counselor by taking in the patient although it
was difficult to make the decision basing on my religious
beliefs. It’s a moral dilemma, in that what I do is likely to
violate an obligation, responsibility of being just and respectful

3. to the patient and that of me not harming my values. The AJ
(analysis and justification) method for ethics gives a fair way of
approaching such a dilemma.
Importance of AJ method (why not rely on instinct)
The method of analysis and justice aims to go beyond gut
instincts on moral questions. By giving and weighing reasons
for one’s opinion. Sometimes we already have a strong feeling
about what is supposed to be done, but then it is never enough
in making decisions in some cases.
Why need the AJ method
Instincts do not convince anyone about your opinions. Having a
view on what is wrong or right and saying it is not helpful or
persuasive to any person. The method provides more hope than
relying on initial instincts of a case and is likely to help a
client, and the counselor understands each other if well applied.
This method helps one to understand their basis of views rather
than leaving them as a complete mystery. If you have to make
decisions based on instincts, then you got no idea of your moral
views grounds.
There can be a mistake in the use of gut instincts if they are
based on bias or prejudice learned from teachers and society.
Failure to see the other side of the issue or not seeing the
strength of reasons can also be a source of mistake, and this is
where the AJ method chips in.
Procedure for moral reasoning
1. Creative problem solving (CPS)
When handling a strong ethical dilemma like the one at hand, it
is necessary to come up with an action plan that can’t be
reasonably objected to, on the based on moral grounds. This
solves the dilemma by avoiding it thus ensuring that you do not
choose between ethically troubling alternatives. In this case,
starting with reflection on ethics and come up with a plan which
details the disturbing options. In this case, a creative solution
would be providing good health care to the patient meaning to
accept him as a client and listening to his side of promoting
gayish which would mean the promotion of his welfare (Thiroux

4. and Krasemann 2016). While mentally preparing oneself for
what may be discussed despite the fact it may be uncomfortable.
2. Listing the pros and cons
Here, I will have the advantages and disadvantages of each
choice detailed down. In order to monitor the various ethical
considerations, it is necessary to have a list of the main options
and the reason for and against each option. There is a need to go
into detail of each of the principles for guidance on the moral
values that should be carefully looked dealing with the case. I
will have to go back and look at the options I have on my own
before meeting with the client for our next session to include
any left possibilities.
3. Analysis
The step involves evaluation of strengths of various reasons in
order to be thoroughly and seriously considering if each of the
reasons is strong in an independent manner or comparison with
other reason in the pros and cons list. If the evaluation is to be
successful, then there is a need to keep in mind what
assumptions could be essential to consider a reason important.
(Psychology and Morals 2015). A reason considered strong if it
is quite likely to protect or enhance critical values.
4. Justification
This is the last step of the AJ method and is where one
determines which method is preferable among all the options.
At this step, the psychologist introduces the issue and gives the
client that option which analysis has seen most preferable.
Support is the next step which involves reasons why you have
selected the preferable option while defense details reasons that
argue against the views that are not morally preferable and
finally summary gives short key details on reasoning reviewing
the most better option.
Summary
This method perfectly fits the case of the homosexual patient
since the counselor is in a big dilemma regarding if they will
work with the client. The steps of the method are applicable in
this case, and can be applied in order to come up with a solution

5. together with the client that will maximize his happiness. The
needs of the client are to come first before the morals of the
therapist. No matter how much it goes against the
psychologist’s beliefs the psychologist is required to give the
client the best treatment possible.
References
Anshen, Ruth N. Moral Principles of Action: Man's Ethical
Imperative. Harper, 1969.
Bentham, Jeremy. An Introduction to the Principles of Morals
and Legislation. publisher not identified, 2012.
Ethical Theories: Session 1. The Network, 1983.
Lodge, R. C. Plato's Theory of Ethics: The Moral Criterion and
the Highest Good. Taylor and Francis, 2014.
Psychology and Morals: An Analysis of Character.
Routledge, 2016.
Thiroux, Jacques P, and Keith W. Krasemann. Ethics: Theory
and Practice. Prentice Hall, 2012.
CASE 2: Counseling and Sexual Orientation
1. Statement of the Case
You are the best (more knowledgeable and experienced)
psychologist—counselor—in a relatively small town. You also
happen to be a hard core fundamentalist Christian who is
horrified by the prevalence of homosexual behaviors and gay
culture. One day, a gay client, referred to you by a colleague of
yours who had been unsuccessful treating this client, knocks at
your door for your services. Due to your long practice
experience, you realize that, if you were to accept this person as
a client, you will be subjected to listening to him talking, in a
detailed manner, about his/her gay/lesbian practices, behaviors

6. and commitment to the promotion of the gay/lesbian cause. This
prospect triggers off a moral dilemma for you. Now, should you
accept this person as your client or not? If you turn him/her
down, account in an ethical way, for your refusal, bearing in
mind that you’re really the only good and effective psychologist
in this town which is 30 miles away from the closest city where
alternatives to your services are available. If you decide to
receive him/her as your client, how would you deal with
him/her. But first, explain your decision. Second, what will you
be guided by in whichever course of action you choose?
2. Instructions
1. Use the AJ Method in this case.
2. Provide a one-page abstract—called Executive Summary---of
your ethical basis (moral theories and principles and the way
you will use them to make your point) for moral decision-
making in this case.
3. Finally, then argue, in an essay format, your way to moral-
decision making in light of the above-mentioned method (AJ).
4. End notes and references should come at the end of the paper.
Use MLA style (get a sample from the front desk in the library).
5. Length of the case: 5 pages (5 pages of text plus 1 page of
bibliography and end-notes, if any).
6. Attach your outline of this case, as a table of contents, to the
final copy.
Limiting Human Physical Development Process

7. Ashley
Parents refer to their daughter as "Pillow Angel"
because she does not move from wherever they put her, usually
on a pillow.
Case:
A Seattle couple has a nine-year-old daughter, named Ashley,
who has static encephalopathy, a rare brain condition which will
not improve. As a result of this condition, Ashley has the
mental ability of a three-month-old baby and cannot walk or
talk. Instead of putting her in an institution, the couple decided,
out of love obviously, to take care of her at home. Contrary to
Ashley’s quite limited psychological (mental) development, the
rate of her physical growth was normal apart from the fact that,
at six year of age, she was already showing signs of puberty.
But, as her body was developing, Ashley was, like any other
girl, getting bigger and heavier; and Dad became the one who
was lifting her from one place to the other. Ashley’s gradual
growth in size and weight made the couple realize that their
ability to keep providing her with a more personal type of care
will go diminishing as they get older. At that point in time, they
would be forced to consider using a mechanical lift, which is
much more impersonal. To ensure not only that they are able to
care for their daughter as long as they are alive, but also that
the latter is provided with the best possible quality of life, the
parents sought and obtained a hormone treatment to limit
Ashley’s growth. They further opted for surgery to block breast
growth and had her uterus and appendix removed.
In support of their action, the parents argued that,
1. “because she will remain the weight of a child, it will
[would] be easier for them to move her around, bathe her and
involve her in family activities - movement that will benefit her

8. physical and mental well-being.”
2. “the treatment will help to improve her quality of life.”
3. "a fundamental and universal misconception about the
treatment is that it is intended to convenience the caregiver.
Rather, the central purpose of the treatment is to improve
Ashley's quality of life."
4. “keeping her "frozen" as a girl rather than letting her go
through puberty and growing into a woman will give her a
better life.”
5. “the decision to remove their daughter's uterus and breast
buds was for the girl's comfort and safety.”
TASK
1. Use the CRM Method in this case.
2. Provide a one-page abstract—often called “Executive
Summary”---of your ethical basis (moral theories and principles
and the way you will use them to make your point) for moral
decision-making in this case.
3. Finally, then argue, in an essay format, your way to moral-
decision making in light of the above-mentioned method
(CRM).
4. End notes and references should come at the end of the paper.
Use MLA style (get a sample from the front desk in the library).
5. Length of the case: 5 pages (5 pages of text plus 1 page of
bibliography and end-notes, if any).
6. Attach your outline of this case, as a table of contents, to the
final copy.

9. ETHICAL CASE SOLVING
Case Resolution Model
CRM
Analysis Justification
AJ
PROCESS
Stzge 1
(P) Present
Problem
PROCESS
Information
Gathering
(IG)
© Collect
Facts

10. Creative Problem-Solving
(CPS)
Satege 2
(L) List
Relevant Values
List
Pros &
Cons
(PC)
€ Explore
Options
Interpret Values

11. Analysis
(A)
(A) Asses
(B) Outcome:
Right o/Wrong
Justification
(J)
Satege 3

12. (C) Decide
(D) Defend
CHART OUTLINE 2: MORAL THEORIES & ADDENDUM
MORAL THEORIES
FOCUS
Categ
HUMAN-CENTERED ETHICS

13. NATURE-CENTERED ETHICS
Type
DOING
Interest: the right actions/the right thing to do
BEING
the kind of person the moral agent ought to be
DOING (Shapes who one is: Being)
Interest: the right action(s)/the right thing to do
Name
Utilitarianism
Future of
Community
Rights-BasedEthics
Individuals’ Rights
Deontology
Duties of Individuals
Virtue Ethics
Character
Care Ethics
Relationships
Narrative Ethics
Past History & Future Plans
Sentientist Ethics

14. Consciousness
Biocentric Ethics
Life
Ecocentric
Ethics
Land
[Planet]
MORAL DECSION-MAKING
Basis
Consequences
of
the action.
Membership-Based Entitlement
Knowledge
of
One’s duty
Moral Excellence
Responsiveness to fellow human beings’ needs
Unfolding of life
within
a culture
Experience of a range of emotions: pleasure, suffering
Reverence
for
Life
Evolutionary source
of all life
Principle

15. An act is morally right if it produces greatest pleasure for
greatest number
An act is morally right if it honors the rights of an individual
An act is morally right if it is carried out out of sense of duty
An act is morally right if done out of moral excellence
An act is morally right if carried out primarily to meet the
needs of someone
The moral rightness of an can be determined only in light of life
story +future plans
Every effort should be made to minimize harm and allow “green
areas” where animals can flourish
Respect for the intrinsic worth of all living things, including
plants + no sentient animals
Respect for the health of biotic pyramids [species in their
environment], and for their capacities for self-renewal
ASSESSMENT
Strengths
*Has comprehensive procedure for calculating what is right
*Values each person’s good equally
*Value of the Individual is respected
*Compatibility with Western society ‘s political theory
*Recognition of complexity of moral situations
*Recognition of nature of the act
*Respect of the value of the individual
*Person-centeredness
*Flexibility based on ability to recognize differences among
persons and circumstances
*Person-centeredness
*Emphasis on communal + emotional nature of human lives
*Person-centeredness

16. *Emphasis on consistency and wholeness of a person’s moral
life
*Focus on consciousness allows for moral concern to be
extended to all living beings, including plants
*Focus on the primacy human life of life entails respect for the
dignity and autonomy of human beings
*Focus on the land raises ecological awareness, results in the
need to care about and protect the environment
Weaknesses
*Can’t determine consequences with certainty.
*Sacrifices individual goods + rights for the sake of the
community
*Can’t determine individuals’ rights with certainty
*Sacrifices the good of community for individual rights
*Sometimes ignores consequences.
*Sacrifices the good of community for individual duties
*Inability to explain how to move from a virtue to the right
action
*Can’t be universally applied due to variability of definitions of
virtue from person/culture to person/culture
*Inability to explain how to move from caring to the right
action
*Can’t be universally applied due to variability of definitions of
virtue from person/culture to person/culture
*Inability to explain how to move from a narrative to the right
action

17. *Can’t be universally applied due to uniqueness of every
narrative
*Doesn’t take into account differences among living beings.
Doesn’t acknowledge food need for humans vs. animals and for
the latter over plants…
*Not sensitive enough to the natural balancing act: Ex.
overpopulation of some animals may call for herd management
*Is likely to bring about conflict and divide people into two for-
and-against-ecology camps
ASSIGNMENT: Fill out this chart with the strengths and
weaknesses of the three types of nature-centered ethics.