I think if we were to devise mock ethical policy and procedure to ensure fair and safe practise for a hypothetical agency then we’d not go far wrong if we used the BACP’s Ethical Framework as a starting point. It is a thorough, robust set of guidelines and policies that really cover the basics of professionality and ethical behaviour in the counselling realm. Also, if a client has a complaint or grievance then they may be reassured if they know that they can take it to the BACP and it will be dealt with professionally. It’s also important to put some reference to data collection and GDPR in this day and age if you are using a website to advertise or help clients. This reassures them that their data won’t be sold or used for nefarious means.
The policy is another important document alongside the counselling contract, and those two aspects can work together to create a robust framework for maintaining professional boundaries, as well as making the client feel safe that there are all these things in place, and that the counsellor is not just making it up as he goes along! Having it all down in writing in one place is also useful for the client when it comes to choosing a counsellor.
Thus follows my mock ethical policy.
IAIN STEWART COUNSELLING LIMITED
Policy and procedure
This service is managed by Iain Stewart, a qualified and accredited counsellor, who is a member of BACP.
Iain is committed to the implementation of the BACP’s Ethical Framework for Good Practice in Counselling & Psychotherapy at every level of his service and he is constantly striving to implement these standards fully.
Iain is committed to the provision of a quality service which is defined by his mission statement, which is to provide a professional service by adopting and implementing all measures of good practice and by undertaking his duties in a manner that enables you, the client group to access services and counselling relevant to your needs.
Iain will continually review and evaluate the services he provides in terms of their accessibility, availability and appropriateness, while ensuring that the use of the service on a day-to-day basis is monitored through the collection of relevant data. User’s views are sought routinely and responses are taken into account in developing Iain’s services.
All services will be delivered in line with best practice in equal opportunities, anti-discriminatory practice and any other relevant legislation.
Iain recognises the importance of the Complaints Policy and Procedure for identifying areas where standards may not have been met, or that the service provided has not been appropriate. Once identified, appropriate steps will be taken to improve the quality of his service.
If you contact Iain via a contact form on his website, the contents of the message and its metadata are retained indefinitely. This is for archival and correspondence reasons. Iain does not use the information or email addresses submitted through them for marketing purposes.
Iain believes that the improvement of quality is a continual process, and all policies are reviewed annually.
