Beneficence refers to actions that promote the well-being of others. In counseling, it means doing what is in the best interest of the client, helping them heal, grow, and improve their mental health. Non-maleficence means “do no harm.” It is the ethical obligation of the counselor to avoid any treatment, behavior, or intervention that could hurt the client mentally, emotionally, or physically.
These principles are part of ethical standards in psychology. Counselors must balance the two—ensuring they help while avoiding harm. They guide all decisions and actions in therapy.