Top Client Advocacy & Ethics Scenarios to Know for the CRC Exam

If you’re preparing for the Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC) exam, you already know how important client advocacy and ethical decision-making are to your role. These concepts aren’t just theory — they show up in real-life situations that CRC professionals face every day. Understanding how to apply ethical principles and advocate for clients in a variety of scenarios is key to passing the exam and thriving in your career.

Let’s walk through common client advocacy and ethics scenarios that align with CRC exam content. Each example will help reinforce your knowledge of the Code of Professional Ethics for Rehabilitation Counselors while strengthening your critical thinking skills.

CRC Scenario 1: Advocacy in the Workplace

Situation: A client with a traumatic brain injury (TBI) is placed in a supported employment program. The employer is resistant to making reasonable accommodations.

CRC Response: You advocate on behalf of the client by educating the employer on ADA requirements and the specific accommodations the client needs. You also work with the client to empower self-advocacy, ensuring their voice is heard throughout the process.

Ethical Focus:

  • Advocacy for client rights
  • Promoting self-determination
  • Understanding of ADA guidelines

CRC Scenario 2: Confidentiality vs. Safety

Situation: A client expresses suicidal thoughts during a counseling session but asks you not to tell anyone.

CRC Response: You explain your ethical duty to break confidentiality when there’s a risk of harm. You follow your agency’s safety protocols while ensuring the client is supported and understands your actions are grounded in care and ethics.

Ethical Focus:

  • Limits of confidentiality
  • Duty to protect
  • Crisis intervention

CRC Scenario 3: Cultural Competence in Practice

Situation: A client from a different cultural background expresses mistrust in the rehabilitation process due to previous discrimination.

CRC Response: You take time to build trust, seek cultural consultation if needed, and adapt your approach to reflect the client’s values. Your role is to ensure equitable treatment and advocacy that respects cultural identity.

Ethical Focus:

  • Cultural responsiveness
  • Equal access to services
  • Non-discrimination

CRC Scenario 4: Conflict of Interest

Situation: You’re asked to evaluate a client who previously attended a counseling group you led. You remember the client, but they don’t recall you.

CRC Response: You disclose the prior relationship, assess for potential bias, and consult your supervisor to determine if a referral is necessary. Maintaining professional boundaries is essential.

Ethical Focus:

  • Dual relationships
  • Transparency
  • Professional boundaries

CRC Scenario 5: System-Level Advocacy

Situation: You notice a trend of clients being denied vocational services due to outdated agency policies.

CRC Response: You collect data, collaborate with colleagues, and advocate at the organizational level for policy reform. Effective CRCs engage in advocacy beyond the individual level when systemic barriers impact service delivery.

Ethical Focus:

  • Social justice advocacy
  • Promoting systemic change
  • Ethical leadership

The CRC exam goes beyond definitions — it tests your ability to apply ethical guidelines in complex, real-life scenarios. Use these examples to think critically, reflect on best practices, and prepare for situational judgment questions. Strengthening your understanding now can lead to better outcomes for your future clients.

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