Codes of Ethics

Many thanks to Jim who posted a comment about some factors involved with getting a degree in psychology. Very thought provoking, actually. He brought up a point that as lay hypnotherapists we do not have to agree to codes of ethics as that of the APA. Good point. However for those of us who are certified, there is often a code of ethics that we are encouraged to follow. I realize this is not handy for everyone, but I think following a trusted organization’s code is the only way to go. It does bring credibility to both hypnotist and the organization. I personally go with (yes, I hear the chorus now) NGH’s, as well as providing each client with a bill of rights.

And I am not sure one can get malpractice insurance without belonging to some such organization, but I cannot swear to this. Do any of you know?

Ethics and Doctors

Ethics. What an interesting concept. As I sit with my faithful British Breakfast tea today I am thinking about ethics. Perhaps it is not really ethics but a question of them.

The concept is doctors and our relationship to or with them. I am fairly doctor friendly for the most part - respect what I do and I shall offer the same courtesy. I work with a couple who send me referrals and generally, I consider what I do complimentary to traditional medicine. It is not a substitute.

On my intake form, I ask about current illnesses and if the new client is seeing a counselor, psychologist, etc.

Here is the dilemma. I have several clients who come to me for various needs from addiction elimination to sexual issues. When I ask them about following up with their doctors, counselors, or psychologist, they often (more than not) ask me not to contact them. I always respect the wishes of my clients or I do not take them on in the case of certain mental conditions.

Now, I suspect the doctors and such would still want me to contact them, but as a patient, I have had things in the past that I felt were not any of my GP's business, so I respect my client's desires to do the same.

Any thoughts? And yes, this question is open to anyone at all - clients, doctors, quick browsers...