Which statement does NOT align with professional ethical guidelines regarding technology and online counseling?

The statement that does not align with professional ethical guidelines regarding technology and online counseling is centered around the idea of competence in providing online counseling. While competence is undeniably a crucial factor in any form of counseling—whether face-to-face or online—this option may imply that it is the sole priority, which can obscure the importance of a wider set of ethical considerations.

Professional ethical guidelines emphasize a holistic approach that includes not only competence but also informing clients about risks and benefits, ensuring communication security, and maintaining privacy and confidentiality. In the context of online counseling, each of these factors plays a significant role in ethical practice. For instance, informing clients about the risks to their privacy helps in establishing trust and transparency, while ensuring security in communication is fundamental to protect sensitive information.

By focusing solely on competence, important elements like client education, informed consent, and responsible use of technology could be overlooked, thereby misaligning with the broader ethical standards intended to safeguard both the counselor and the client in an increasingly digital environment.