The helping relationship constitutes the effective and appropriate use of helper's skills that are for the benefit and safety of the client in his or her circumstances.
The Code of Ethics I abide by as a member of the Australian Institute of Counsellors (From the Australian Counselling Association) are as follows:
I will:
- i. Offer a non-judgmental professional service, free from discrimination, honouring the individuality of the client
- ii. Establish the helping relationship in order to maintain the integrity and empowerment of the client without offering advice.
- iii. Be committed to ongoing personal and professional development
- iv. Ensure client understanding of the purpose, process, and boundaries of the counselling relationship.
- v. Offer a promise of confidentiality and explain the limits of duty of care
- vi. For the purpose of advocacy, receive written permission from the client before divulging any information or contacting other parties.
- vii. Endeavour to make suitable referral where competent service cannot be provided
- viii. Undertake regular supervision and debriefing to develop skills, monitor performance and sustain professional accountability.
- ix. Be responsive to the needs of peers and provide a supportive environment for their professional development
- x. Not act as or practice legal counsel on behalf of or to a client when practicing as a counsellor or act as an agent for a client
- xi. Not initiate, develop or pursue a relationship be it sexual or nonsexual with past or current clients, within 2 years of the last counselling session
- xii. Be responsible for my own updating and continued knowledge of theories, ethics and practices through journals, the association and other relevant bodies
- xiii. Be committed to the above code of ethics and recognise that procedures for withdrawal of membership (from ACA) will be implemented for breaches