Code of Ethics and Practice: Rules

1)    The counselling relationship is for the benefit of the client. The emotional well being of the client will be the paramount concern of the Counsellor

2)  The Counsellor must ensure that they do not abuse the client's vulnerable situation. The term abuse includes the following: sexual, emotional, psychological, intellectual and physical.

Note on rule 2: Sexual abuse is possible where a Counsellor and client may feel attracted to one another. Where such feelings are present the Counsellor should take these issues to supervision making every effort to protect the clients identity. Emotional, psychological and intellectual abuse sometimes takes place where a power struggle builds up in the counselling relationship. Counsellors would be aware of these possibilities. Physical abuse is more obvious and is the less likely. However, this too has been reported to happen in the counselling room in some circumstances. Counsellors should take any abuse issues that they have or that may arise in counselling to supervision. These issues should also be discussed in counselling with the client at appropriate times.

3)   The number of counselling sessions will be kept to the minimum required to meet the Client's requirements.

Note on rule 3: Where a Counsellor deliberately prolongs the counselling relationship this is one example of financial abuse. It is the responsibility of the Counsellor to agree a fee with the client at the start of counselling that the client can afford. If the Counsellor is unable to lower the fee to suit a particular client, the Counsellor should consider options for referral.

4)   The Counsellor must ensure that total confidentiality is maintained subject only to the following exceptions:

a) Disclosures with the express permission of the client.

b) Disclosures which lead the Counsellor to believe that serious harm may befall a third party.

c) Disclosures that would leave the Counsellor liable to civil or criminal court procedure if not disclosed.

5)    Members will have their qualifications and experience checked by the Society before their membership is awarded. However, it is the responsibility of the member to maintain their level of competency by training and/or study and practice.

6)  Counsellors will be subject to the ISPC complaints procedure.