Speak Out August 2019 Digital Edition

Ethics

How narrative ethics supports decision making when communicating with parents

A narrative approach to ethical decision making tells us that decisions regarding professional practice should be guided by consideration of the client’s story. This includes gaining an understanding of who is present in the story, what are the roles, responsibilities and perspectives of those who are involved, and how open communication can be maintained with all, to benefit the client. When the client is a child and the parents are separated or divorced having a clear understanding of the background story

father as Bethany stated during the assessment that he is not present in Marella’s life in any way, he never sees her, and Bethany doesn’t want him involved. Doug calls your practice stating he is Marella’s father and he has just heard about speech therapy sessions. He is cross that he was not informed Marella was receiving therapy and he demands to be told how many sessions she has had and to be sent a copy of all the notes and reports. The next time Marella attends therapy you mention Doug’s call to Bethany, who becomes annoyed that you spoke with Doug. She states that you are not to talk with Doug or provide him with any information, as she is the person paying for therapy and bringing Marella every week.

assists in responding appropriately to all involved. Consider this scenario

Marella is a 5-year-old you have diagnosed with DLD. Bethany, Marella’s mother, has always brought the child to therapy sessions and there has never been any reference to contacting Marella’s

What do you do?

Concern

Narrative ethics consideration

Possible action

Both parents may play an important role in a child’s environment, you need to know what the parenting arrangements are

You have a consistent process on intake to identify if parents are separated or divorced and routinely request a copy of any court orders or parenting orders that may exist. If such a document is available, then it is appropriate to have a copy in the clients file, as the content of that order must guide actions taken.

What are your ethical and legal obligations regarding communicating with Doug and providing the information he wants

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August 2019 www.speechpathologyaustralia.org.au

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