Henderson Counselling & Guidance Services (HCGS)

Code of Ethics and Practice

Date of Inception: 01 July 2022

Mission Statement:

Henderson Counselling & Guidance Services (HCGS) was established originally as a support group for diverse communities in 2014 and in 2021 expanded into a professional counselling practice to provide high-quality, client-centred, and ethical services. Our mission is to promote the well-being and mental health of individuals through a client-centred and values-driven approach.

Our Story

Henderson Counselling & Guidance Services (HCGS) was established originally as a support group for diverse communities in 2014 and in 2021 expanded into a professional counselling practice as South Otago Counselling Services based in the rural town, Balclutha in South Otago on the New Zealand South Island to provide high-quality, client-centred, and ethical services. HCGS was officially registered as a business on 27 July 2022 with the aims to nurture and resource its members to engage with clients in a professional, respectful, and compassionate manner, adhering to high ethical standards. This Code of Ethics is reviewed regularly to ensure alignment with best practices, current laws, and the evolving environment in Aotearoa New Zealand. Our mission is to promote the well-being and mental health of individuals, couples, and families in South Otago through a client-centred and values-driven approach.

Our Commitment to All Clients:

HCGS is committed to professional and disciplined practice that integrates collaboration, consultation, self-care, and evidence-based approaches and embrace the Te Tiriti O Waitangi Principles. The following principles guide our work:

• Whakawhanaungatanga: Building genuine connections and relationships.
• Manaakitanga: Providing welcoming, nurturing care.
• Karakia: Honouring the spiritual dimension, including prayer.
• Aroha: Embracing compassion and love in our work.
• Non-maleficence: Avoiding harm in all interactions.
• Beneficence: Acting in ways that benefit and support clients.
• Autonomy: Respecting clients' rights to self-determination.
• Justice: Ensuring fairness and impartiality.
• Sanctity of the Counselling Space: Honouring the sacredness of the therapeutic relationship.
• Wellbeing and Safety: Placing clients' wellbeing and safety at the forefront.
• Trustworthiness: Upholding honesty and the trust placed in us.
• Self-Awareness: Ensuring personal beliefs do not disadvantage clients.
• Scope of Practice: Working within our areas of competence.
• Accountability: Engaging in transparent supervision and seeking feedback.
• Learning: Committing to ongoing education and professional development.
• Spirituality: Respecting clients' spiritual choices and practices.

Guidelines for Best Practice:

HCGS members are encouraged to:

• Follow the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi in their practice.
• Actively engage in professional development and supervision.
• Maintain the confidentiality, dignity, and rights of all clients.
• Collaborate and consult with peers and supervisors to uphold ethical standards.
• Promote a safe, supportive, and empowering environment for clients.
• Remain mindful of cultural, spiritual, and contextual considerations.

By adhering to this Code, members of Henderson Counselling & Guidance Services commit to providing professional, ethical, and compassionate counselling services.

Core Values:

Client-Centred Care:

HCGS prioritise the needs and preferences of our clients, respecting their autonomy and fostering a safe and non-judgmental environment for self-exploration and growth.

Confidentiality:

HCGS uphold the highest standards of confidentiality, ensuring that all client information is kept secure and disclosing information only when legally required or when there is a risk of harm to the client or others.

Professional Competence:

HCGS continuously seek to improve our skills and knowledge through ongoing education and training, ensuring that our clients receive the best possible care.

Cultural Sensitivity:

HCGS respect and honour the diversity of our clients, recognising the importance of cultural competence and inclusivity in our practice.

Ethical Conduct:

HCGS adhere to a strict code of ethics to maintain the trust and integrity of our profession and our clients.

Code of Ethics:

Client Welfare:

HCGS prioritise the welfare and best interests of our clients, seeking to empower them in making informed decisions about their well-being.

Confidentiality and Privacy:

HCGS maintain strict confidentiality regarding all client information and interactions, unless required by law or if there is a risk of harm to the client or others. We inform clients of the limitations of confidentiality at the beginning of the counselling relationship.

Informed Consent:

HCGS obtain informed consent from clients for assessment, treatment, and any other relevant procedures, ensuring they understand the nature and purpose of counselling.

Competence and Professional Development:

HCGS commit to maintaining and enhancing our professional competence through continuous education, supervision, and self-reflection. We refer clients to other professionals when their needs exceed our expertise or scope of practice.

Boundaries:

HCGS establish and maintain appropriate boundaries with clients to prevent conflicts of interest, dual relationships, or exploitation. We do not engage in any form of romantic or sexual relationships with clients.

Cultural Sensitivity and Diversity:

HCGS respect the cultural, religious, and individual values of clients, seeking to understand and integrate these into the counselling process. We avoid discriminatory practices and biases in our interactions with clients.

Conflict of Interest:

HCGS disclose any potential conflicts of interest and take appropriate steps to manage them in the best interest of the client.

Supervision and Consultation:

HCGS engage in regular supervision and consultation with qualified professionals to ensure the quality and effectiveness of our services.

Compliance with Laws and Regulations:

HCGS comply with all applicable laws and regulations governing the practice of counselling in the wider Auckland region, including abiding by the requirements of the New Zealand Privacy Commissioner as stipulated in the Privacy Commissioner's Law of April 1993/2020.

Ethical Decision-Making:

HCGS engage in ethical decision-making processes when faced with dilemmas, seeking consultation and guidance when necessary.

Reporting Violations:

Clients or staff who suspect violations of this code of ethics should report their concerns to the practice manager or the appropriate regulatory body.

Record Keeping:

Client records are maintained securely for at least 10 years, adhering to health regulations. Records are kept to document processes, ensure clarity, and meet legal requirements.