Talking over personal concerns is something we all do with family and friends.  However, how many people may benefit from discussing these same concerns in a virtual environment? This is the focus of your debate on the merits of web-based counseling (conducted by email or by a combination of email, phone, and instant messaging). As you analyze this new trend in psychology as business, remember the key points raised in the readings for this assignment.

For this task, imagine that the local community college has asked you to write an article for a newsletter on the pros and cons of online counseling. Review the evidence, reflect, and write your evaluation. The focus of your article should be the ethics involved in online counseling. In preparing your evaluation, be sure to refer to the following ethical issues:

• Honesty
• Competence
• Confidentiality
• Duty to warn and protect
• Developing a therapeutic relationship

Remember to incorporate key elements of the APA Code of Ethics that apply to your analysis as well as additional research.

Length: 3-5 pages

Your paper should demonstrate thoughtful consideration of the ideas and concepts presented in the course by providing new thoughts and insights relating directly to the topic. Your response should reflect scholarly writing and current APA standards. Be careful to adhere to Northcentral’s Academic Integrity Policy.