Service Policies
Code of Ethics
It is our duty to uphold a high standard of ethics in our practice. The following code outlines the principles that we are committed to, ensuring the benefit and safety of our clients in their unique circumstances.
1. Offer a non-judgmental professional service: We are dedicated to providing a service that is free from discrimination, treating each client with respect and dignity. We honor the individuality and diversity of our clients, creating a safe space for them to express themselves without fear of judgment.
2. Establish a helping relationship without offering advice: Our aim is to empower and support our clients throughout their journey. We commit to maintaining the integrity of the helping relationship by refraining from giving advice or imposing our own beliefs. Instead, we guide clients in exploring their own options and finding their own solutions.
3. Commit to ongoing personal and professional development: We recognize the importance of continually enhancing our knowledge and skills. Through regular training, workshops, and supervision, we stay informed about the latest theories, ethics, and practices in the field of counseling.
4. Take responsibility for personal growth and professional knowledge: We actively seek opportunities to update and expand our knowledge. This may include reading professional journals, participating in association activities, and engaging with other relevant bodies to stay abreast of new developments in the field.
5. Provide a supportive environment for peers: We acknowledge the importance of supporting our fellow professionals. We aim to create a nurturing and collaborative environment where peers can seek guidance, share experiences, and grow together. By fostering this support network, we contribute to the ongoing professional development of our colleagues.
6. Engage in regular supervision and debriefing: We understand the value of supervision in further developing our skills and ensuring accountability in our practice. Regular supervision sessions help us reflect on our performance, identify areas for improvement, and maintain professional standards.
7. Ensure client understanding of the counseling relationship: It is essential that our clients have a clear understanding of the purpose, process, and boundaries of the counseling relationship. We are committed to providing complete information and ensuring transparency, empowering clients to make informed decisions.
8. Maintain confidentiality and clarify duty of care: We promise our clients confidentiality within legal and ethical limits. We explain the boundaries of confidentiality and duty of care, ensuring that clients are aware of the circumstances where exceptions may apply.
9. Obtain written permission before divulging information: To protect the privacy and autonomy of our clients, we obtain written consent before sharing any information or contacting other parties for the purpose of advocacy. We respect our clients' right to control the flow of information regarding their counseling sessions.
10. Make suitable referrals when necessary: If we are unable to provide competent counseling services due to the nature of the issue or expertise required, we will endeavor to make suitable referrals to ensure our clients receive appropriate support.
11. Avoid providing legal advice or acting as legal counsel: We do not provide legal advice or guidance on matters of law when practicing as counselors. Our role is to provide emotional support and assistance in relating to those legal matters, ensuring that clients seek appropriate legal counsel when needed.
12. Refrain from acting as an agent for a client: We do not act as agents for our clients or engage in activities that may compromise the integrity of the counseling relationship. Our primary focus is on facilitating personal growth, self-discovery, and mental wellbeing, within the boundaries of our professional role.
13. Maintain appropriate boundaries with clients: A critical aspect of the counseling relationship is preserving professional boundaries. We do not initiate, develop, or pursue any form of relationship, whether sexual or nonsexual, with past or current clients within two years of their last counseling session. This rule is in place to protect the wellbeing and integrity of the counseling process.
14. Commitment to the code of ethics: We acknowledge that adherence to the above code of ethics is paramount to our practice. By committing to these principles, we ensure the highest standard of care for our clients. Breaching this code may result in procedures for the withdrawal of membership. the client in his or her circumstances.
Confidentiality
Confidentiality is a crucial aspect of the therapeutic relationship in counseling. It serves as a means to provide clients with safety and privacy, ultimately safeguarding their autonomy.
We are committed to maintaining our client’s confidentiality at all times unless there are compelling legal or ethical reasons to override them. In exceptional circumstances where the client's safety is at risk, any confidentiality agreements that could impede their well-being are considered void. Protecting the client from harm takes precedence, and in such cases, the counselor is obligated to breach confidentiality to ensure the client's safety.
Confidentiality also extends to client records, regardless of whether they are maintained in hard copy or digital format. These records will be kept securely to prevent unauthorized access and maintain the privacy of the client. Safeguarding all forms of client information is vital to uphold the principles of confidentiality and ensure the trust between the counselor and the client.
Confidentiality in counseling is an essential aspect that promotes safety, privacy, and client autonomy. It is a fundamental element discussed and agreed upon in the counseling contract. Client records will be securely maintained, and any breach of confidentiality is only acceptable under exceptional circumstances where the client's safety is at stake.