National Group Opposes Religious Opt-Out for Counselors

[rug]

Friday, June 17, 201
ANDREW DeMILLO, Associated Press

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (AP) – The American Counseling Association said Thursday it's opposed to an effort in Arkansas to allow counselors to refer clients to another provider if they have a religious objection to treating them.

The association's director of government affairs, Art Terrazas, said the rule change proposed by the state Board of Examiners in Counseling is unnecessary and he was concerned about the impact it could have. Lawmakers have given initial approval to the proposal, which is expected to go before a legislative panel on Friday.

The rule would allow counselors and therapists to refer a patient to someone else over sincerely held "ethical, moral or religious principles" but only after careful consideration and consultation, and only if the counselor is unable to effectively serve the client. It also says counselors cannot abandon someone who seeks assistance.

"We do have some concerns because the bottom line for us is the code of ethics states that counselors do not discriminate when it comes to serving the clients who come through their doors," Terrazas told The Associated Press. He said he believed the rule gave counselors "a wink and a nod" to discriminate.

https://www.memphisdailynews.com/news/2016/jun/17/national-group-opposes-religious-opt-out-for-counselors/

[Jerry442]

1. Don't counselors routinely refer clients to other counselors?

Not because of discrimination or other hot-button social issues, but because the client might be a better "fit" with some other counselor. Seems that someone who's a homophobe could just quietly pass a client on to someone else.

This sounds a lot more like the State of Arkansas trying to plant an anti-LGBT flag on a hill.

[rug]

2. Your last sentence captures it.

[Silver_Witch]

3. If a counselor can't put aside their religious bias

Better to know up front. I would rather not get help from a bigot who is judgemental. Religious people who need to opt out should find another jog. Seriously!

[rug]

4. While framed as a religious liberty bill, in reality it's a consumer protection measure.