Abstract
M.Comm.
The key objective of this qualitative study was to identify clients’ ethics expectations of the consulting
psychologist, so as to enhance consulting psychologists’ ability to engage ethically with their clients.
The Delphi technique allowed for the design and validation of an exploratory model, encompassing
ethical components perceived to be integral to the ethical dimension of the client-consultant ethical
relationship and process. A total of 24 clients of consulting psychologists participated in the study,
and content analysis was used to interpret the data. Findings indicated that ethical conduct based on
specific ethical values and ethical principles are expected of the consulting psychologist within the
consulting relationship. An exploratory model was produced which outlines the ethics expectations
clients have of the consulting psychologist. The model may be applied by both consulting
psychologists and their clients in their consulting engagements. This awareness and understanding
could inform and promote ethical behaviour in consulting practices, as well as encourage consulting
psychologists to strive for the highest standards of professionalism and ethical excellence.