What does the principle of non-maleficence require from counselors?

The principle of non-maleficence is a fundamental ethical guideline in counseling that emphasizes the importance of avoiding harm to clients. This principle obligates counselors to ensure that their actions do not lead to any physical, emotional, or psychological distress for the individuals they serve. This means that counselors must carefully assess the potential risks and benefits of their interventions, seeking to mitigate any harm while promoting the well-being of their clients.

By adhering to the principle of non-maleficence, counselors not only fulfill their ethical duty but also build trust and maintain a safe therapeutic environment. This principle reinforces the importance of a client-centered approach, where the well-being and safety of the client are paramount in the counseling relationship.

The other options do not align with this principle. Providing positive reinforcement is a technique that may be used within therapy but doesn't address the overarching ethical obligation to avoid harm. Prioritizing the counselor's own well-being over that of clients contradicts the ethical responsibility to put clients' needs first. Establishing authority in therapeutic settings could create power imbalances and potentially harm the client-counselor relationship, contrary to the intent behind non-maleficence.