All Mpower therapists agree to abide strictly by the Mpower CODE OF ETHICS.
1 Maintain strict confidentiality within the therapeutic relationship consistent with the good care of the client and the laws of the land and ensure that any client notes and records be kept secure and confidential. Confidentiality must be observed at all times unless:
(a) it is in the best interest of the client/patient to disclose relevant information;
(b) the client/patient has given their permission to disclose;
(c) where the law requires disclosure;
(d) when sharing information with fellow professionals. In the latter case, client anonymity must be guaranteed.
Practitioners must note that the question of confidentiality also applies to client records, computerised records (which must conform to the Data Protection Act, 1986), and any audio or video recording. Any information or case histories used for training or commercial purposes must have the written consent of the individual involved.
2 Never promise a cure for any condition or problem, nor give advice or otherwise pass comment on any medical, psychiatric, or psychological problem or condition unless they have training and qualifications in these fields.
3 To provide a service to clients only in those areas in which they have trained and demonstrated competence, and for which they carry full professional indemnity insurance.
4 Be aware of their own limitations and experience and whenever appropriate, be prepared to refer a client on to another more suitable practitioner who might reasonably be expected to offer suitable treatment.
5 Ensure as far as possible that wherever an aspect of the client's condition is either known or suspected to be beyond their area of expertise, the client be advised to seek medical or other appropriate advice.
6 Always obtain written permission from the client (or client's parents/guardians if appropriate) before recording client sessions by any method other than written notes.
7 Take all reasonable steps to ensure the safety of both the client and any person who may be accompanying the client.
8 Refrain from using their position of trust to exploit the client emotionally, sexually, financially or in other way whatsoever. Should either a sexual or financial relationship (other than the payment of session fees or purchase of books, tapes, or other relevant products) develop between either therapist and client or members of their respective immediate families, the therapist must immediately cease to accept fees, terminate treatment consistent with clause 9 below and transfer the client to another suitable therapist at the earliest opportunity.
9 Refrain from commencing any sort of relationship with any client, past or present, other than a therapeutic one. Clients must remain solely as clients. Members are strongly advised against working with friends or family for anything other than simple relaxation work or other 'single-session' therapies.
10 Terminate treatment at the earliest moment consistent with the good care of the client.
11 Not permit considerations of religion, nationality, gender, gender preference, disability, politics, or social standing to adversely influence client treatment. Where there is a potential for this situation to exist, i.e. where a therapist is not at ease with some aspect of the client's 'way of being', then it is part of that therapist's duty of care to refer the client on to another suitable practitioner.
12 As far as possible, not to refuse therapy because of financial hardship.
13 Ensure that their work place and all facilities offered to both clients and their companions will be in every respect suitable and appropriate for the service provided.
14 Disclose full details of all relevant training, experience and qualifications to clients upon request.
15 Make no claim that they hold specific qualifications unless such claim can be totally substantiated.
16 Explain fully to clients in advance of any treatment, fees, terms of payment, session length, and any charges levied for non-attendance or cancelled appointments.
17 Present all services and products in an unambiguous manner and ensure that the client retains complete control of the decision to purchase such services or products.
18 Neither expect nor encourage gifts from clients. Small tokens of appreciation may be accepted at the end of therapy but should in no way be solicited.
19 Conduct themselves at all times in accordance with their professional status.
20 Minors (under 16 years old) must always be accompanied by a parent or guardian throughout any session, including assessment sessions.
21 Therapists will refrain from any behaviour in connection with their professional endeavours that would be likely to bring the practice and/or its clients into disrepute.
Contact: Bob Watson DHP LAPHP, Mpower Hypnotherapy Practice.
ESSEX: Walden House, Walden House Road, Great Totham, Essex CM9 8PN.
LONDON: 11 Telfords Yard, 6-8 The Highway, Wapping, London E1W 3SJ.
Call: 0800 0463501, 01621 893560 or 07743 204243.