Which entity is responsible for overseeing ethical standards in counseling?

The correct answer centers on the role of ethics boards, which are specifically established to set, maintain, and oversee ethical standards within the counseling profession. These boards often consist of a group of experienced professionals who enforce ethical guidelines, address violations, and provide accountability within the field. This oversight is crucial in ensuring that counselors adhere to established ethical practices and provide quality care to clients.

Other entities mentioned, such as compliance enforcement agencies and state licensing boards, have different functions. Compliance enforcement agencies typically deal with regulatory compliance rather than directly overseeing ethical practices. State licensing boards, while they do play a role in the overall licensing process and may address unethical behavior, primarily focus on the licensure and regulation of practitioners rather than on establishing ethical standards per se. Substance use treatment programs can also play a role in addressing ethical concerns within their own frameworks, but they do not have the same authority over ethical standards in the broader counseling field as dedicated ethics boards do.