National Counselor Exam (NCE)

What term best describes a counselor who comes to work inebriated?

1. An effective professional

2. An impaired professional

3. A proactive counselor

4. An ethical practitioner

The correct answer is: An impaired professional

The term that best describes a counselor who comes to work inebriated is "an impaired professional." This designation indicates that the professional's ability to perform their job competently and safely is compromised. Impairment can result from various factors, including substance use, which directly affects judgment, decision-making, and overall performance in a counseling setting. In the context of counseling, impairment is particularly concerning because it can jeopardize client safety and the integrity of the therapeutic process. Counselors have an ethical obligation to maintain their professional responsibilities, and being inebriated clearly detracts from their effectiveness. This situation also raises important questions about the counselor's fitness to practice and the need for intervention or support for their well-being. The other terms do not accurately reflect the scenario either. Being referred to as an effective professional or an ethical practitioner implies a standard of competence and moral conduct that inebriation inherently violates. A proactive counselor typically refers to someone who anticipates potential issues and takes steps to prevent them, which juxtaposes the irresponsible behavior of coming to work under the influence.