CODE OF CONDUCT

In order to ensure safety and comfort during a private session, we must both agree to the following:

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​Code of Conduct

• All clients must be 18 years or older.

• Alcohol or other intoxicants must not be consumed before the session. 

• Sessions are non-sexual. All touch, both given and received, will be professional and non-sexual. 

• Both parties will practice consent and respect personal boundaries at all times. No's are celebrated. Uncertainty is given space. 

• Both parties will remain clothed, and will keep their hands outside the clothes at all times. 

• Cleanliness and adequate hygiene is required by both parties. This specifically includes showering, teeth brushing, wearing clean clothes and avoiding strong scents.

• The first session begins by by clearly outlining the professional dynamic, communication and consent practices. This is restated and expanded on when needed during subsequent sessions.

• Sessions are person-centered. Every client has their particular needs, and prefers different forms of communication. Clear, open explicit communication is the default whenever there is any uncertainty. Mutual understanding is crucial.

• There is no “correct” way to be in a session. Session are adapted to suit the client's needs and desires.

• Clear, open communication is encouraged, but clients can share as much or as little as they choose. 

• Clients are permitted to discuss sensitive topics if they bring context and value to the session. There are no assumptions or innuendo. Uncomfortable topics should not be unnecessarily avoided. 

• Both parties will communicate if they feel emotionally or physically uncomfortable or concerned at any time during the session. 

• The client can end the session at any time.

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Restrictions​​

• A phone/zoom screening call is required before the first session to ensure a good fit.

• If the client's needs are poorly aligned with Embrace Connection services, or if a current client begins to require additional support, they will be redirected to other forms of support like psychotherapy, GPs, emergency mental healthcare providers, etc. 

• In case of a mental health emergency, see this list of services from Mind. 

• Sessions are not a substitute for proper medical consultation for physical, mental and psychological illnesses and may not be suitable for everyone.

• Sessions are not advised for people suffering from major psychiatric disorders. 

• People who have trauma may be eligible for this work as long as they have self-awareness and some ability to manage themselves and their trauma. We can collaborate to work with/around the nervous system, trauma and triggers. 

 

Space Holding

• The purpose of sessions is to provide value to the client according to their stated goals (e.g. comfort, education, personal growth, etc.)

• Everything the therapist does is in service to the client. The motivation is to help clients achieve their goals and be satisfied with their sessions. 

• The therapist is continuously sensing and attuning to the client’s state, even if they are not explicitly communicating anything. This enables timely check-ins and adjustments to meet their needs. 

• The therapist is aware of power dynamics with clients, and how it affects communication, boundaries, decision-making, etc. Extra space is made for uncertainty and no's.

• The therapist has no personal attachment to the mix of specific activities, experiences or outcomes in a session. ​

• There are no personal relationships between with current clients and the therapist.

• If the therapist encounters a current client outside of the professional dynamic, they will not initiate an interaction, but will respond to invitations by the client.

• After a period of 1 year from the end of a professional relationship, the therapist and past client may redefine the dynamic according to the current situation and needs, with awareness of power dynamics and past context. 

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Privacy

• Client Data is stored in compliance with GDPR and ICO requirements.

• No specific information regarding the client will ever be shared with another party unless the client gives written permission to use personal information. This includes information shared during a meeting, session, over email, text, phone conversation, etc. 

• Photographs and videos will not be taken during the session unless explicitly agreed in writing. 

• Any pictures or video recordings, and their intended purpose, must be discussed and agreed upon in writing before a session begins. They may not be used for purposes outside of the written agreement.