We all want to do the right thing but sometimes we are presented with an unfamiliar situations fo r which we are unsure as to what to do. What the ethical framework does is to act as a guide which we can use as a guide to help us make good choices. By its nature, it cannot be an exhaustive list, but more so a set of principles, which when taken as a holistic framework, give us the necessary support. Advanced course, like the diploma and supervision course, go through a rigorous module on ethics.
Click on the link below to read the summary that all course participants are given no matter what level of study. This is a PDF so it is easy to print for reference. It is also printed out in full below for ease of use
Note that the key words used below are an acronym for SHAPE.
Safety – Honesty – Autonomy – Privacy – Ethical
SAFETY
First do no harm
Ensure that the work you do not cause harm to a client or to anyone else and in such a way that you are not harmed either. Harm is meant in its widest context of well-being in terms of physical, emotional, spiritual or mental well-being
HONESTY
Are your thoughts and actions consistent with helping the client
You are doing what you do because you want to help the client. This may mean that it is better to refer the client on as your own skills are not developed enough to deal with the issues. Being honest about your limitations and what expectation you give to the client.
AUTONOMY
The focus should be on the client
The client has come to see you because they have some issues. Your contract with the client should establish and maintain boundaries. Your focus needs to be on the client the whole time without any other distractions. You need to be competent in the field you are working in and also keep up to date with regular and relevant training. Appropriate client supervision sessions will help keep this focus
PRIVACY
The client has a right to confidentiality
Most people will have heard about GDPR. It’s essentially about personal data. We discuss it in more detail on another course. Everyone expects that you will treat their sessions in the strictest of confidences and what is discussed between you will remain private. There are caveats to this which should be outlined in the contract stage.
Social media can present additional challenges in terms of what information can easily be accessed.
ETHICAL
More than just doing the right thing
A set of standards that is applied by humans in terms of values, obligations, benefits to society which are to the common good but also refrain from causing harm