Comparing the 2017 and 2025 APA Ethical Codes: Key Updates for Psychologists in Private Practice

Understanding the Changes in the APA Ethical Code

The American Psychological Association (APA) recently released a draft of the revised 2025 Ethical Principles of Psychologists and Code of Conduct. These changes reflect advancements in psychology, address emerging challenges like technology and diversity, and broaden the ethical responsibilities of psychologists. For private practitioners, these updates are crucial for maintaining ethical compliance and fostering trust in professional relationships.

Non-APA members who are psychologists… Note that “The Standards are enforceable in that allegations of violations may cause cases to be opened by the APA Ethics Committee or by other institutional, governing, or regulatory bodies that choose to adopt them.” This includes Psychologist State Licensing Boards who have adopted the APA ethics code regardless if a psychologist is a member of the APA or not.

This article provides a comprehensive comparison of the 2017 APA Ethical Code and the proposed 2025 draft, highlighting the key updates that every psychologist in private practice should know.

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Main Changes in the APA Ethical Code

1. Structural Updates

Aspect	2017 Code	2025 Draft Code
Structure	Introduction, Preamble, Five Principles (A-E), Ethical Standards (10 sections).	Introduction, Eight Principles, Relationship Between Principles and Standards, Ten Sections of Standards.
Number of Principles	5 Principles (A-E).	8 Principles, including new focus areas like Environmental Stewardship and Social Justice.
Technology Section	No dedicated section.	New section addressing ethical use of technology, AI, and telehealth.
Environmental Focus	Not addressed.	Included under the new principle of Environmental Stewardship.

2. Expanded Ethical Principles

2017 Ethical Principles

• Beneficence and Nonmaleficence: Promote well-being and avoid harm.
• Fidelity and Responsibility: Build trust and accept accountability.
• Integrity: Ensure honesty and truthfulness.
• Justice: Uphold fairness and equity.
• Respect for People’s Rights and Dignity: Protect autonomy and dignity.

2025 Draft Ethical Principles

• Beneficence: Focused on actively promoting well-being.
• Nonmaleficence: Emphasis on avoiding and minimizing harm.
• Human and Civil Rights: A new principle advocating for universal and equitable access to rights.
• Integrity and Trustworthiness: Expanded to include cultural competence.
• Justice and Social Justice: Combines fairness with advocacy for systemic equity.
• Respect for Persons and Peoples: Broader recognition of cultural and group identities.
• Scientific Mindedness: Commitment to evidence-based practice and ethical research.
• Environmental Stewardship: Acknowledges the impact of environmental factors on well-being.

3. Key Updates to Ethical Standards

Technology

• 2017 Code: Indirectly referenced under general confidentiality and competence.
• 2025 Draft Code: A dedicated section addressing ethical considerations for AI, digital tools, and telepsychology. It emphasizes ensuring equitable access and managing risks.

Confidentiality and Privacy

• 2017 Code: Focused on protecting client information.
• 2025 Draft Code: Expanded to distinguish confidentiality, privacy, and privilege, and offers clearer guidance on their application in diverse contexts.

Informed Consent

• 2017 Code: Embedded within therapy and assessment sections.
• 2025 Draft Code: Presented as a standalone section emphasizing transparency, autonomy, and ongoing communication.

Environmental Considerations

• 2017 Code: Not addressed.
• 2025 Draft Code: New standards encourage psychologists to consider environmental factors and their influence on well-being.

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What These Changes Mean for Private Practitioners

1. Embracing Technology Responsibly

Private practitioners must adapt to technological advancements by:

• Familiarizing themselves with AI and telehealth guidelines.
• Ensuring equitable access to technology-based services.
• Regularly updating digital tools to maintain confidentiality and security.

2. Prioritizing Diversity and Social Justice

The 2025 draft emphasizes systemic equity and inclusion. To align with these principles:

• Assess your practice’s accessibility for diverse populations.
• Incorporate training on cultural competence and implicit bias.
• Advocate for marginalized communities through professional activities.

3. Considering Environmental Stewardship

Psychologists in private practice can contribute to environmental well-being by:

• Reducing the carbon footprint of their offices.
• Addressing climate-related stressors in therapy.
• Supporting community-based environmental initiatives.

4. Maintaining Ethical Competence

The draft’s expanded focus on competence highlights the need for ongoing education. Practitioners should:

• Stay updated on the latest ethical guidelines.
• Engage in peer consultations to address complex ethical dilemmas.
• Invest in continuing education, particularly in emerging areas like AI and systemic advocacy.

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Action Steps for Psychologists in Private Practice

1. Review the Draft Code: Familiarize yourself with the updated principles and standards. Review the draft APA Ethics Code open to public comment.
2. Assess Your Practice: Identify areas where you can implement the new guidelines, such as technology use or diversity initiatives.
3. Engage in Training: Seek out workshops or courses on cultural competence, social justice, and ethical technology use.
4. Incorporate Environmental Responsibility: Evaluate how your practice can contribute to environmental well-being.
5. Stay Informed: Commit to ongoing professional development to navigate future updates effectively.

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Written by AI & Reviewed by Clinical Psychologist: Yoendry Torres, Psy.D.

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