The surge in chemical abortions and recent shifts in abortion laws following the overturn of Roe v. Wade have left women and families facing pregnancy decisions in a complex and uncertain environment. As a result, therapists and counselors are increasingly encountering women grappling with profound trauma after using the abortion pill. These professionals are not only challenged by the need to provide compassionate care for those experiencing such trauma, but they must also navigate a rapidly changing legal landscape while helping women obtain the material, emotional and spiritual resources they need to process pregnancy options. In states hostile to unborn life, licensed mental health providers may face ethical dilemmas and concerns over their rights of conscience when approached by clients considering abortion. This workshop will provide guidance and support those in the counseling profession facing these issues as well as education to advocate for the conscience rights for therapists and counselors facing the possibility of being forced to provide referrals for abortion.
222 | Abortion Counseling in 2025: Legal and Ethical Considerations in Post-Roe America
PRESENTERS
Jeanneane Maxon, J.D. & Bonnie McJunkin, M.A., LPC
CE CREDITS
1.25
Approved For CE
NBCC, ASWB, IBCC, AMA PRA Category 1 Credits, AOA Category 2A Credits, Georgia Nurses Association, AAFP , Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy and Mental Health Counseling
Approved For CME/CEU
LEVEL
Intermediate
Summary
Learning Objectives
1 Identify the emotional and psychological trauma women may experience after using the abortion pill, and how to provide effective, compassionate support to those affected.
2 Examine the ethical challenges faced by professionals in states with restrictive abortion laws, including how to manage situations of being pressured to provide referrals for abortion services.
3 Analyze the rising concerns over rights of conscience in the context of abortion, and develop strategies for navigating these challenges while maintaining ethical integrity and providing quality care.