Code of Ethics and Conduct

I abide by the Code of Ethics and Conduct as laid down by The British Psychological Society and the Code of Ethics for members of The Institute of Career Guidance.  I wish to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and will follow these codes alongside my professional skill and ethical judgement.

The BPS code is based on four Ethical Principles: Respect, Competence, Responsibility and Integrity.

Respect

I offer respect to all my clients and treat them with sensitivity and dignity.  I value the dignity and worth of people and will maintain standards of privacy and confidentiality.  I refer those whose needs exceed my professional competence to other qualified professionals.

I will keep appropriate records, store confidential information securely and will not disclose any information on my client without the clients consent except where there is clear evidence of serious risk to the client or to the welfare of others.

Conversations and written communication between a client and Denise are in confidence. For professional development a clients details may be discussed with my supervisor/ mentor without mention of client names. On a rare occasion where there may be a query about an assessment that falls outside of my knowledge, personal details would need to be shared with my professional supervisor to enable them to access the relevant report and thus be best able to advise me.

When an organisation is paying for a service, for example, outplacement, details of the number of sessions we have had and general statements on what we have covered will be provided, but not the specific detail.

Competence, including Continuous Professional Development

I will undertake continuous professional development to enable me to be an effective practitioner.  This will include reflective practice, readings and research, peer discussions and attendance at conferences and meetings. I will seek out consultations and supervision as necessary to enable me to perform effectively in my work.

Responsibility

I recognise the boundaries of my own competence and do not attempt to practice any form of psychology, coaching or counselling for which I do not have specialist qualification. I refer those whose needs exceed my professional competence to other qualified professionals.

I will seek out professional guidance and support as required.  I will terminate professional services when a client does not appear to be deriving any benefit from my services.

Integrity

I will

• Be honest and accurate in representing my professional affiliations and qualifications including knowledge, skill, training, education and experience.
• Be honest and accurate in conveying professional conclusions, opinions and research findings and in acknowledging the potential limitations.
• Be honest and accurate in advertising my professional services and products in order to avoid encouraging expectations or otherwise misleading the public.
• Ensure that clients are aware of costs and methods of payment for the provision of professional services.