The principle of competence relates to the conduct of professionals. This principle states that the professional should be cognizant of the fact that there are limitations in his/or her competence, and the counselor should not stray from these boundaries. Professionals should also strive to support each other (i.e. encouraging each other to seek treatment or advice, if needed).

Another principle involves legal and moral standards, stating that professionals should behave in accordance with legal and moral laws. This entails that the professional be aware of the federal laws and the state laws regarding alcohol and drug addiction counseling. Also, the professional should ensure that all services abide by the legal and ethical standards required.

Public statements is yet another principle, and it says that counselors should strive to only present statements that are true as fact. Speculations and conjectures on the subject of alcoholism and drug addiction should be clarified as such. The counselor should make it a point to acknowledge where information has come from and to what extent it was verified.

Publication credit is a principle which states that fellow professionals should not reproduce or violate the copyright of any materials.