If an apparent violation has substantially harmed or is likely to substantially harm a person or organization and is not ap- propriate for informal resolution or is not resolved properly, counselors take fur- ther action depending on the situation. Such action may include referral to state or national committees on professional ethics, voluntary national certification bodies, state licensing boards, or ap- propriate institutional authorities. The confidentiality rights of clients should be considered in all actions. This standard does not apply when counselors have been retained to review the work of another counselor whose professional conduct is in question (e.g., consultation, expert testimony).
Consultation When uncertain about whether a particular situation or course of ac- tion may be in violation of the ACA Code of Ethics, counselors consult with other counselors who are knowledge- able about ethics and the ACA Code of Ethics, with colleagues, or with appropriate authorities, such as the ACA Ethics and Professional Stan- dards Department.