Ethics in Participatory Research on Counselling and Psychotherapy

Increasingly, therapy practitioners and researchers position themselves within a pluralistic perspective that draws on the value of multiple sources of knowledge. The aim of this book is to highlight the distinctive ethical challenges and opportunities associated with a pluralistic research orientation.

The book begins by succinctly summarising ethical concepts and strategies, such as informed consent, confidentiality, and avoidance of harm, that form the foundations of ethically sound research. An overview of distinctive ethical features of pluralistic research is then provided, followed by a series of chapters that address specific strands of ethics work. The closing chapter discusses approaches to training and ethical inquiry, the establishment of communities of research practice, and the provision of forms of counselling and psychotherapy that promote social justice. Each chapter will open with a concise chapter outline and close with a summary of key learning points, take-home skills, and follow-up learning activities. Case examples from published studies will be used to illustrate how theory and concepts have been implemented in real-life investigative contexts.

Written in plain English that is accessible to a wide range of readers, with recommended reading signposted in respect of advanced topics, this book will be an essential resource for practicing and trainee professionals and researchers in the psychological professions.