Dignity: I believe every person, regardless of background, age, income, or personal history deserves to be treated with dignity and honor. As a counselor, I demonstrate this value by modeling a positive sense of self-worth and by treating my clients as individuals worthy of my time and careful attention.
Respect: I believe that the thoughts, beliefs, and words of every individual should be respected and acknowledged without judgment or shame. As a counselor, I demonstrate this value by providing my clients with a safe space to explore their own values without attempting to impose my own upon them. That said, I also respect my clients enough to challenge faulty belief systems they may have, believing that they are the only one’s who can bring about positive change in their own lives.
Integrity: I believe that a life of integrity requires consistent adherence to ethical standards, both formal, such as those established by the American Counselor Association, and universal, like honesty and fairness. As a counselor, I adhere to a life of both professional and personal integrity.
Value: I believe that every person, regardless of life experience or ability, holds significant value. I also believe that understanding one’s value as an individual is an integral step toward mental and emotional health. As a counselor, I will consistently affirm the innate value of my client and encourage them to recognize their own value.
Equality: I believe that every individual deserves equal opportunity to live out his or her full potential. As a counselor, I demonstrate this value by believing the best of each of my client, avoiding judgment, and promoting positive self-worth.
