In recent decades, in-home counseling has gained popularity as a cost-effective method of treating individuals and families who would otherwise not have access to counseling services. Unfortunately, this treatment modality has not yet been widely researched, and educational and professional requirements for practitioners are ill defined. The unique situation of in-home counseling increases the potential for ethical challenges to arise. This survey study explored attitudes of in-home and outpatient counselors in Virginia regarding ethical situations encountered by in-home counselors. Differences between in-home and outpatient beliefs were examined. Although no significant differences were found between the two, an interesting pattern emerged regarding the ethical rating of situations related to the situation’s potential to harm the client. Findings from the study, including rankings of items are presented. Implications for the training and practice of in-home counselors are discussed.
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