Code of Ethics
Bye Law 1
The WMlP Code of Ethics describes the ethical principles of professional conduct to which all Members subscribe in all aspects of their professional work. The principles are considered to apply to situations not specifically described in this Code, and it should be noted that this Code covers supervisor - supervisee and teacher - trainee relationships to which more specific references are made in the Code of Practice. It is recognised that some Members will also need to conform to the Codes of Ethics of other professional bodies.
- A Member will always strive to act in the best interests of the patient*.
- A Member will ensure that the patient (or, where this is not possible, a responsible carer) is given information on the nature of the therapy being undertaken, so that an informed consent is given, both initially and as the process of therapy continues.
- A Member will maintain appropriate boundaries with patients and will ensure that the therapist-patient relationship is not exploited, for instance - financially, sexually, emotionally or socially.
- A Member will respect the patient's' right to self-determination by not knowingly attempting to impose any particular set of values, moral standards or ideals upon the patient, but will not knowingly condone or encourage any action which is detrimental or damaging to the patient, to third parties or to society.
- The existence of the therapist-patient relationship is in itself confidential. Information received within it is confidential and is not passed on without prior consent, unless the safety of the patient or others is threatened. Patients can be advised that under these specific circumstances, the Member may break confidentiality.
- If clinical material is to be used for the purposes of a paper it is the responsibility of the member to think through the issues in relation to the therapeutic work. This thinking through will include the decision as to whether the use of clinical material needs to be discussed with a patient. It is the member's responsibility to preserve the anonymity of the patient. In the case of research, members are required to clarify with patients the nature, purpose, and conditions of any research in which the patients are to be involved and to ensure that informed and verifiable consent is given before commencement.
- Members of the Institute are responsible for monitoring and maintaining their own professional competence and physical and mental health.
- A Member:
- has a responsibility not to act in any way that is detrimental to the Institute, the profession, colleagues, supervisees or trainees.
- who has evidence of conduct by another Member that is in breach of these Codes of Ethics and Practice shall invoke the Complaints Procedure if discussion, with the Member concerned, fails to bring about a satisfactory resolution of the concerns.
* "Patient" includes "client" in its meaning in this document
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