Which principle focuses on preventing harm in counseling practice?

• A. Principle 8: Preventing Harm
• B. Principle 9: Duty of Care
• C. Principle of Confidentiality
• D. Principle of Informed Consent

Answer: (A)

Preventing harm guides ethical practice by focusing on protecting clients from avoidable physical, psychological, or social harm. This principle directs counselors to anticipate risks, implement safe practices, monitor for adverse effects, and act to reduce danger, such as through risk assessments and appropriate crisis interventions or referrals. It is the most explicit framing of harm avoidance among the options, whereas Duty of Care covers overall competence and responsibility, Confidentiality protects privacy to maintain trust, and Informed Consent ensures clients understand and agree to treatment. In everyday counseling, prioritizing preventing harm means staying within your competencies, watching for warning signs, and taking timely steps to keep clients safe.