What should psychologists do if they recognize a bias that could impact their practice?

When psychologists recognize a bias that could impact their practice, seeking supervision or consultation is the most appropriate action to take. This approach allows them to gain insights and strategies from colleagues or supervisors who may provide different perspectives or expertise on managing such biases. By engaging in consultation, psychologists can ensure that they maintain ethical standards and provide the best possible care to their clients.

This practice aligns with the ethical guideline of competence, which emphasizes the importance of continual professional development and self-reflection. Acknowledging and addressing personal biases is crucial, as biases can unintentionally influence treatment decisions, client interactions, and the overall therapeutic process. Engaging in supervision or consultation fosters an environment of accountability and professional growth, thereby minimizing the potential negative consequences of biases in psychological practice.

While documenting a bias in the client's file may have its merits for personal reflection, and informing the client of all biases may create transparency, these actions alone do not directly mitigate the impact of the bias on the therapeutic relationship. Therefore, seeking supervision or consultation is the best course of action for psychologists to ensure ethical and competent practice.