Ethical Commitment

What Clients Can Expect from My Counselling Practice

My practice is deeply rooted in British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) Ethical Framework for the Counselling Professions. This framework outlines the values, principles, and professional standards that ensure therapy remains ethical, effective, and centered on your well-being. Here’s a detailed explanation of what this means for you as my client

My Commitments to You as a Client

1. Putting Your Needs First

Your Well-Being is the Priority: I commit to making your emotional, mental, and physical well-being the focal point of our work together.
Providing High Standards of Care: I work diligently to tailor my approach to meet your unique needs, ensuring our sessions align with your goals and comfort level.

2. Respecting Your Individuality and Privacy

Valuing You as a Unique Person: I treat every client with respect, regardless of background, culture, or experiences.
Upholding Confidentiality: All sessions are private and confidential, except in cases where legal or ethical obligations (e.g., risks of harm) require disclosure. Even in such instances, I handle these situations with transparency and care.

3. Building a Trustworthy Therapeutic Relationship

Clear Communication: From the beginning, I explain the boundaries, goals, and processes of therapy, so you understand what to expect.
Avoiding Exploitation or Misuse: I uphold professional boundaries, ensuring that our relationship is safe and focused solely on your growth.

4. Maintaining Professional Integrity

Transparency About Expertise: I share accurate information about my qualifications, therapeutic approaches, and the limitations of therapy.
Commitment to Learning: To provide the highest standard of care, I continuously engage in professional development and adhere to evidence-based practices.
Seeking Supervision: I regularly consult with a professional supervisor to ensure I am offering you the most effective support while maintaining ethical practices.

5. Promoting Accountability

Monitoring and Adjusting: I regularly evaluate how therapy is progressing, taking your feedback seriously to ensure our sessions are beneficial.
Being Open About Challenges: If any risks or concerns arise in our work, I will discuss these with you transparently and collaboratively.

The Core Principles of the BACP Ethical Framework

Being Trustworthy

Trust is foundational to effective therapy. I commit to earning and maintaining your trust by acting with integrity, honesty, and consistency in all aspects of my practice.

Respect

Your autonomy, dignity, and rights are central to our work. I honor your values and choices while providing guidance that aligns with your best interests.

Safety

I aim to create a safe environment where you feel comfortable exploring your thoughts and emotions, free from judgment or harm.

Justice

Equality and fairness are paramount. I am committed to ensuring that therapy is accessible, non-discriminatory, and respectful of all backgrounds and identities.

Courage

Therapy often requires addressing difficult truths. I support you in facing challenges and making meaningful changes, and I bring courage to addressing ethical dilemmas within our work.

Personal Moral Qualities I Bring to Therapy

The BACP Ethical Framework emphasizes the importance of therapists embodying certain personal qualities, including:

Empathy: A deep understanding of your feelings and experiences.
Resilience: The ability to support you even in challenging circumstances.
Integrity: Consistent honesty and authenticity.
Humility: Recognizing and respecting the limits of my knowledge and role.
Compassion: A genuine desire to alleviate your distress and support your growth.

How This Benefits You as a Client

By adhering to this framework, I aim to ensure that therapy is a partnership built on trust, respect, and mutual commitment. My ethical approach creates a space where you can feel safe, valued, and empowered to pursue meaningful change.

To learn more about the BACP Ethical Framework, you can review the full document here BACP.