Code of Ethics

Adopted March 3, 2006

Introduction: This Code of Ethics provides a set of values for members to follow in their professional aspirations and practice. Members strive for the highest possible standards of conduct and make the physical and mental well-being of each client a prime focus.

Competence: Members strive to maintain the highest standards of competence in their work. Members provide only those services for which they are qualified, competent and comfortable, based on education, training, experience and interest. Members recognize the need for continuing education and stay informed of relevant professional and scientific information related to hypnosis.

Integrity: Members strive to promote integrity in the practice and teaching of hypnotherapy by providing services consistent with a diligent duty of care and within their knowledge, competence and experience. In their activities, members are honest, fair and respectable to others. Members are aware at all times of their position of trust and confidence and take all reasonable steps to ensure the safety of their client. Members conduct themselves in such a way as to prevent anything from happening that might bring hypnotherapy into disrepute.

Referrals: Members shall engage in hypnotic work with a client regarding a diagnosed medical or mental disease after consultation or referral from an appropriately licensed medical or mental health professional. Members cooperate with other professionals in order to serve their clients’ best interests.

Reasonable Practice: Members shall withhold non-referred hypnotherapy services if a client’s statements or behavior would lead a reasonable person to believe that the client should be evaluated by a licensed professional.

Fees and Financial Arrangements: The member and client reach an agreement as early as possible specifying the compensation and billing arrangements. Each individual member is consistent in their fee structure.

Informed Consent: Members obtain appropriate informed consent for hypnotherapy services in language understandable to their clients.

Confidentiality: Members have a primary obligation and take reasonable precautions to respect and uphold the privacy of those they serve.

Advertising: Members shall be truthful in their advertising.

Recording of Sessions: It is recommended that members obtain written permission from their clients before audio or video recording of sessions.

Termination of Professional Relationship: Members terminate a professional relationship when it becomes reasonably clear that the client no longer needs the service, is not benefiting from the service, and/or is not comfortable in the professional relationship.