Ethics

Summary of the NZAC Code of Ethics

The New Zealand Association of Counsellors (NZAC) Code of Ethics serves as a foundational framework for ethical practice, ensuring that all members uphold the highest standards of professionalism. This document is designed to protect the public, guide counsellors in their work, and maintain the integrity of the counselling profession in New Zealand. The Code is deeply rooted in the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi and is aligned with New Zealand law.

Core Values of Counselling

The NZAC Code of Ethics is built upon six core values that are integral to the counselling profession:

• Respect for Human Dignity: Every individual is to be treated with respect and their unique qualities are to be honoured.
• Partnership: Counsellors are to work in a collaborative manner with their clients.
• Autonomy: The right of clients to make their own decisions is to be respected and upheld.
• Responsible Caring: The primary responsibility of a counsellor is to act in the best interests of their clients and to avoid causing harm.
• Personal Integrity: Counsellors are expected to be honest, trustworthy, and to maintain high standards of personal conduct.
• Social Justice: Counsellors should advocate for fairness and equality for all individuals.

Ethical Principles in Practice

The core values are expressed through a set of ethical principles that guide the actions of counsellors. These principles include:

• Cultural Sensitivity: Acting with care and respect for the diverse cultural backgrounds and experiences of clients.
• Do No Harm: Taking all reasonable steps to avoid causing harm to clients in the course of their professional work.
• Treaty of Waitangi: Upholding the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi in their practice.
• Confidentiality: Protecting the privacy of clients and the confidentiality of the information they share.
• Well-being: Promoting the safety and well-being of individuals, families, and communities.
• Honesty and Trustworthiness: Being truthful and reliable in all professional relationships.
• Competence: Practicing only within the boundaries of their skills, training, and experience.

General Guidelines for Professional Conduct

The Code of Ethics provides comprehensive guidelines for various aspects of professional conduct, including:

• The Counselling Relationship: This section addresses important issues such as client safety, respecting diversity, obtaining informed consent, setting clear and fair fees, maintaining accurate records, and avoiding any form of exploitation.
• Confidentiality: The Code details the importance of maintaining client confidentiality and outlines the specific situations in which confidentiality may be limited.
• Professional Responsibility: Counsellors have a responsibility to their colleagues, the profession, and the wider community. This includes treating colleagues with respect, upholding the integrity of the profession, and being accountable for their professional actions.
• Relationships with Other Parties: The Code also provides guidance on how to navigate relationships with employers, funding agencies, and the wider community in an ethical manner.

Specific Domains of Practice

In addition to the general guidelines, the Code of Ethics also addresses specific domains of practice, providing guidance for counsellors working in areas such as:

• Supervision
• Counsellor Education
• Research and Writing
• Group Work
• Electronic Communication

This summary provides a brief overview of the NZAC Code of Ethics. For a complete understanding of the ethical responsibilities of counsellors in New Zealand, it is recommended to refer to the full text of the Code (https://nzac.org.nz/site/about-us/code-of-ethics)