1. Be familiar with the music therapy code of ethics of your association. It is hoped that you have become more familiar with this code in solving the ethical dilemmas presented in this text. However, it is important to keep the code handy and refer to it often. As the music therapy codes of ethics may be revised, become familiar with new documents as well.
2. Become familiar with federal laws and state regulations which are applicable to music therapy practice. Identify.an attorney who may be available to you and provide consultation when difficult or crisis situations arise.
3. Be familiar with the rules, regulations and policies of your employer. Remain alert to any rules, etc. which may conflict with the ethical standards of the music therapy profession, and inform employers ofthese conflicts in advance. Prevention of such conflicts can greatly enhance your work situation.
4. Seek out continuing education in ethics, at conferences, through specialized course work, or through directed self-study. Access libraries, bibliographies and/or online resources with current information on ethics. Encourage the development of workshops and seminars on ethics at your workplace or at conferences of your state, regional or national music therapy association.
5. Engage in efforts to enhance your own self-awareness. This can occur through personal therapy, supervision and/or consultation. Keep a journal of your thoughts and feelings, particularly with regard to the clients you see. Pursue options for self· care that are most meaningful and relevant to your own needs, as discussed in Chapter 3. Work actively to deal with excessive stress.
6. Use all available opportunities to enhance your professional and personal competence. Pursue continuing education through graduate courses, workshops, seminars, self-study, etc. Seek out supervision when the limits of your competence are tested.
7. Develop a peer support network, particularly if you feel isolated in your work. Among peers, you can have opportunities to share clinical experiences, strategies, techniques, concerns and information. Peers can also provide opportunities for supervision.
8. Maintain a list of professionals with whom you may consult for expert advice on ethics, such as members of your association's ethics committee, former faculty members or supervisors, etc. Use them for advice and feedback!
9. Identify when there is the potential for an ethical problems, and remain aware of your blind spots, biases, weaknesses, limits and vulnerabilities. Develop skill in applying a model for ethical problem-solving,