Doing the job well : looking at the role of ethics and ethical dilemmas in the work of pastoral counsellors

Abstract

This article looks at the experiences and needs of pastoral counsellors and ministers regarding ethical dilemmas in performing their duties. The problem that arose is that pastoral counsellors have an ethically and psychologically dangerous task and are not necessarily adequately prepared for or supported in that task. It is a study conducted within the framework of practical theology. A social constructionist paradigm, supported by a narrative approach to research was chosen. Thus the research was of a descriptive, qualitative nature. The empirical research took the form of unstructured interviews with pastoral counsellors and others who work in related circumstances. Three themes were investigated as playing a role in pastoral counsellors' experiences of ethical issues. They are: training and the role of mentors, approach to ethics and ethical dilemmas. Professional ethics was also identified as a contributing factor in the literature review. This study has shown that the emerging profession of pastoral counselling is faced with challenges in terms of ethics.