For the following testing scenario, identify specific ethicalconsiderations or potential violations committed by Dr. Jeffersonas discussed in your textbook and course manual. From an ethicalperspective, please consider what Dr. Jefferson has done well andwhat she could have done differently. If there is a violation ofthe Canadian Psychological Ethical Guidelines for Psychologists,provide recommendations for a more ethical practice (i.e., whatadvice would you give to Dr. Jefferson?) Dr. Jefferson lives andpractices psychology in a rural area. She has been a registeredpsychologist for 5 years (Ph.D. in Child Psychology) and her areaof specialization is anxiety disorders and depression. She began toprovide psychotherapy to Mr. Giles, a 42-year-old, who was dealingwith depression. After three sessions, Mr. Giles suffered asignificant head injury while at work. His impairment is noticeableby Dr. Jefferson without any type of testing, although sheadministers the Halstead-Reitan Neuropsychological Battery, just incase. Mr. Giles’s co-worker, Cynthia, helped him find an attorneyso that his rights are protected, especially since the incidentoccurred at work. Dr. Jefferson had Mr. Giles sign a release totalk with the attorney as well as Cynthia. From a phone call withthe attorney, WSIB (Workers Compensation) wants to work out asettlement, but the attorney has little understanding regarding Mr.Giles’ level of impairment. Mr. Giles demonstrates a variety ofcognitive deficits. He needs assistance and monitoring with dailytasks, such as home care, shopping, transportation, understandingthe settlement process, reading his mail, and paying his bills. Hewill likely need to go into an assisted living facility. His familylives three provinces away and provides minimal help, bothemotionally and financially. Mr. Giles doesn't appear to understandhis legal rights or the settlement process. Prior to providingextra-therapy support, Dr. Jefferson had Mr. Giles sign a documentexplaining her fees for the additional services. She is not surethat he completely understands what is happening or her version ofinformed consent for the additional services. The psychologist hasbeen doing much of the case management work on her own, such aslocating a long-time friend who is willing to help him at home,engaging in lengthy discussions with his primary care physician andneurologist, participating in multiple conversations with theattorney, and trying to find a guardian or power of attorney. Overdinner and beers, she has also spoken at length to her partner, aneuropsychologist, about how best to serve her client.
