IntroductionChemical dependency counseling involves direct interactions with clients and as such it is necessary to establish standards that promote safe and responsible counseling. Chemical dependency counseling has an established code of ethics, guidelines and regulations that seek to safeguard the interests of all involved. Laws and ethics ensure that everyone acts in a way that does not cause harm to others. Laws and ethics also contribute to giving credibility to the profession. The Licensed Professional Counselors Association of Georgia (2014) provides guidance on counselor conduct as required by law. Chapter 135-7-01 provides the various responsibilities of consultants to their clients. Every consultant has a responsibility towards their clients. It is their primary duty to promote the well-being of their clients and serve the client's best interests. Confidentiality Chapter 135-7-03 of the Licensed Professional Counselors Association of Georgia (2014) states that confidentiality, especially of client information, must be respected at all times. The advisor should safeguard client information to the extent required by law. The American Counseling Association (2005) incorporates confidentiality as part of its Code of Ethics. Requires advisors to keep the advisor-client relationship and shared information confidential. In the case of group counseling, it is expected that provisions must be in place to protect confidentiality. The counselor must clearly record and keep client information confidential at all costs. According to the Texas Board of Addiction Professionals, the chemical addiction specialist has a duty to protect the privacy of clients and must not disclose information obtained from... half of the document... (1996), Confidentiality: The legal and ethics for chemical dependency counselors. Jrnl and Off-Board Addictions, 17: 3–11. doi: 10.1002/j.2161- 1874.1996.tb00106.xNAADAC. (2013). Code of Ethics. Retrieved May 11, 2014, from http://www.naadac.org/code-of-ethicsArthur, G.L., & Swanson, C.D. (1993). Confidentiality and privileged communication. The ACA Legal Series, 6. Confidentiality of Alcohol and Drug Abuse Records, 52 Fed. Reg. 21796-21814. (1987). Washington, DC: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, U.S. Government Printing Office. Certification Board of Addiction Professionals of Texas. (2014). Ethical standards for chemical dependency counseling. Retrieved May 11, 2014, from http://www.tcbap.org/?36Iowa Board of Certification. (January 2012). Code of Ethics for Alcohol and Drug Counselors. Retrieved May 11, 2014, from http://www.i