Which ethical principle emphasizes honesty and transparency in therapeutic settings?

Integrity is the ethical principle that emphasizes honesty and transparency in therapeutic settings. It involves a commitment to being truthful with clients and upholding moral values in all professional interactions. This principle ensures that therapists provide clear and accurate information about their practice, treatment options, and any potential outcomes, fostering a trusting relationship between the therapist and the client.

When practitioners embody integrity, they are not only forthright about their qualifications and methods but also engage in honest dialogue about any issues that may arise during the course of treatment. This transparency helps to ensure informed consent, as clients are fully aware of the nature of the services they are receiving and can make knowledgeable decisions regarding their care.

While boundaries are essential for maintaining a professional relationship, and respect for autonomy focuses on honoring the client's right to make their own choices, integrity encompasses a broader commitment to ethical conduct in all interactions. Professionalism includes adherence to ethical standards but may encompass various aspects of behavior, not solely focused on honesty and transparency. Thus, integrity is the key principle that directly highlights the importance of being honest and transparent in therapeutic settings.