Introduction: The BLNA is committed to promoting the highest standards of professional and ethical conduct among its members. This Code of Conduct outlines the principles and responsibilities that all members must adhere to when providing services under the PMA. By becoming a Professional Member (either Practitioner Member or Advocate Member) of this PMA, you agree to abide by this Code of Conduct.
1. Professional Competence and Integrity
Maintain Professional Competence: Members shall provide services within the boundaries of their competence and understanding of the Biological Laws and must continually strive to maintain and enhance their professional knowledge, skills, and competence. This includes engaging in ongoing education and professional development.
Integrity in Practice: Members must practice with integrity, honesty, and transparency in all client interactions. Misrepresentation of qualifications, services, or results is strictly prohibited.
2. Client Welfare and Safety
Prioritize Client Welfare: The welfare and safety of clients must always be the primary concern. Members must take all reasonable steps to ensure that their services are provided safely and with respect for the client’s dignity and autonomy.
Informed Consent: Members must obtain informed consent from clients before providing any services. This includes explaining the nature, purpose, and potential risks of the therapy or intervention, as well as respecting the client’s right to refuse or withdraw consent at any time.
3. Confidentiality
Protect Client Privacy: Members must maintain strict confidentiality regarding all client information. Client information may only be disclosed with the client’s explicit consent or when required by law.
Data Protection: Members must comply with all relevant data protection laws, including the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), when handling client, customer or other member’s information.
4. Ethical Practice
Avoid Conflicts of Interest: Members must avoid situations where their personal interests could conflict with their professional responsibilities. Any potential conflicts of interest must be disclosed to the PMA and managed appropriately.
No Discrimination: Members must provide services without discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Respect for Client Autonomy: Members must respect the autonomy of their clients and support their right to make informed decisions about their care.
5. Professional Relationships
Respectful Interactions: Members must treat clients, colleagues, and other healthcare professionals with respect and courtesy. Professional relationships should be based on mutual respect and collaboration.
Boundaries: Members must maintain appropriate professional boundaries with clients. Personal relationships that could impair professional judgment or exploit the client-therapist relationship are prohibited.
6. Legal and Ethical Compliance
Compliance with Laws and Regulations: Members must comply with all applicable laws, regulations, and professional standards in their practice, including those governing the operation of the PMA.
Ethical Decision-Making: Members must use ethical decision-making processes in all aspects of their practice, considering the welfare of the client and the ethical implications of their actions.
7. Accountability
Responsibility for Actions: Members are responsible for their actions and must be prepared to justify their decisions and actions to clients, peers, and the PMA.
Reporting Misconduct: Members must report any breaches of this Code of Conduct or any unethical or illegal behaviour by other members to the PMA’s governing body.
8. Continuing Education and Supervision
Engagement in Continuing Education: Members must commit to continuous learning and development in their field. This includes staying informed about new developments, research, and best practices.
Supervision and Peer Support: Members are encouraged to engage in regular supervision and peer support to ensure they are practicing in line with the highest professional standards.
9. Promotion and Marketing
Truthful Marketing: Members must ensure that all promotional and marketing materials are accurate, truthful, and not misleading. Claims about the effectiveness of services must be supported by evidence.
Respect for Client Privacy in Marketing: Members must not use client testimonials or case studies in marketing materials without the client’s explicit written consent.
10. Disciplinary Action
Violation of Code of Conduct: Any member found to be in violation of this Code of Conduct may be subject to disciplinary action by the PMA’s governing body, which could include suspension or termination of membership.
Fair Process: Disciplinary procedures will be conducted fairly and transparently, with members given the opportunity to respond to any allegations made against them.