Ethos & standards

The rules that make the mark mean something.

Every IAPCCT member and accredited provider commits to a published code of ethics and a set of International Standards. These are the practices and procedures that keep our reputation synonymous with quality.

The IAPCCT Principles

Our code of ethics. Every member agrees to it.

These principles underpin everything we do. A breach can be dealt with through our complaints and disciplinary procedure, up to and including loss of membership.

Respect the dignity, worth and right to self-determination of every person.
Act with integrity, independence and impartiality.
Avoid conflicts of interest.
Represent their qualifications and experience honestly.
Practise only within the limits of their competence and to the highest standards.
Update their skills and knowledge continuously.
Offer interventions as options, never as guaranteed solutions.
Respect confidentiality and its legitimate limits.

Recognize their scope of practice and refer on where appropriate.
Respect other styles of coaching, counselling, therapy and related professions.
Support fellow members and never solicit their clients.
Make expectations and terms clear, and agree changes openly.
Ensure the client's safety and work within an ecological framework.
Act within the law and never collude in unlawful conduct.
Act as ambassadors for the profession and for IAPCCT.
Avoid bringing the profession or IAPCCT into disrepute.

A note for clients

The code does not assume a member holds a particular level of skill in every area. Before engaging any professional, please satisfy yourself that they are suitably skilled for your needs. IAPCCT deals strictly with breaches of the code through its complaints and disciplinary procedure.

International Standards

How accredited providers are expected to train.

Maintain effectiveness

Trainers monitor their own functioning, seek support when needed, and withdraw when their resources cannot support effective training.

Contract clearly and confidentially

Providers set out the responsibilities of trainers and trainees and maintain appropriate professional boundaries at all times.

Give regular feedback

Trainees receive regular feedback, and self and peer assessment is encouraged throughout the program.

Commit to development

All members commit to continuing professional development and can account to trainees and colleagues for what they do and why.

Never exploit trainees

Trainees must not be exploited emotionally, financially, sexually or in any other way. Working relationships are kept distinct from other relationships.

Respect other providers

Members avoid disparaging other trainers or organizations, and honour all licensing conditions on any material they use.

Complaints & disciplinary procedure

A standard is only as strong as its enforcement.

Members are responsible for observing the Principles and International Standards and for introducing them to trainees early in any course.

Where a member breaches the code, IAPCCT may hold them accountable and take action under its complaints and disciplinary procedure. This can result in the loss of IAPCCT membership.

A note for clients

If you believe a member has acted contrary to our standards, contact us with the details and any supporting information.

Meet the standard, carry the mark.

See how membership and credentials work.