Which practice is a violation of ethical standards regarding assessment and treatment?

Billing for services not medically necessary is a violation of ethical standards regarding assessment and treatment because it undermines the integrity of the therapeutic relationship and trust between a client and a clinician. Ethical guidelines emphasize the importance of providing services that are justified, necessary for the client's welfare, and appropriate for their diagnosis and treatment goals. When a clinician bills for services that are not medically necessary, it not only constitutes fraud but can also lead to harm for the client, erode trust in the therapeutic process, and can result in disciplinary action from professional licensing boards.

In the context of the other options, making clinical decisions based on standardized measures is considered best practice and is aligned with evidence-based approaches to assessment and treatment. Prioritizing client comfort and safety during sessions upholds the ethical obligation to protect clients’ well-being, while creating procedures for client emergencies demonstrates a commitment to professional responsibility and client care. Each of these practices is consistent with ethical guidelines, as they focus on the welfare and rights of the client.