This course covers significant practice-based challenges for the mental health professional. The course includes a review of ethical standards and guidelines that have been developed by various professions (e.g., mental health counseling, substance abuse counseling, human services, marriage and family counseling, psychology, and social work) and their practical application to day-to-day decision-making. It examines common tensions, polarities, and moral conflicts within which the counselor must exercise discretion and judgment, and explores the legal and ethical frameworks through which these decisions must be considered. Through discussion, role play, real-time case examples and guest speakers, this class provides students with the opportunity to deepen their understanding and commitment to professional standards and ethical guidelines for competent practice as a mental health counselor or program manager. This course will also introduce students to licensure standards, licensing process and legal issues in their respective states.