Final answer:
The ethical code of conduct is the most helpful for counselors in defining their professional roles for counseling clients.
Step-by-step explanation:
The ethical code of conduct is the most helpful for counselors in defining their professional roles for counseling clients. An ethical code of conduct outlines the professional norms, values, and ethical principles that counselors should adhere to in their practice. It provides guidance on important aspects such as confidentiality, boundaries, and professional standards, helping counselors in establishing a clear framework for their counseling work.
While an understanding of self-help groups can be beneficial in certain counseling contexts, it is not as crucial for defining professional roles as the ethical code of conduct. Certification is also important, but it is more focused on the validation of skills and expertise rather than defining professional roles.