Ethics in Psychotherapy

In my role as a licensed psychotherapist and clinical supervisor, I adhere to the ethical principles in psychotherapy as well as the professional standards in psychology that govern my licensure, including state laws and the guidelines set forth by relevant professional organizations.  

These clinical supervision ethics include, but are not limited to:  

- Respect for client autonomy and informed consent  

- Protection of confidentiality and privacy  

- Clear professional boundaries  

- Commitment to competence and continuing education  

- Avoidance of dual relationships that could cause harm  

- Responsibility to seek consultation or referral when appropriate  

I provide psychotherapy strictly within the scope of my licensure and only in jurisdictions where I am legally authorized to practice.

Spiritual direction is a reflective, non-clinical practice distinct from psychotherapy and adheres to clinical supervision ethics. It is not a substitute for mental health treatment and does not involve diagnosis, treatment planning, or symptom management. Instead, spiritual direction focuses on attentive listening to meaning, values, spiritual experience, and the unfolding of inner life, all while respecting ethical principles in psychotherapy.

When I offer spiritual direction:

- Participation is voluntary and collaborative.

- The focus is on discernment, reflection, and presence.

- Psychological or psychiatric needs are named clearly and referred appropriately, in line with professional standards in psychology.

- Boundaries between spiritual direction and psychotherapy are maintained with care.

If, at any point, clinical support is needed, I will name that openly and assist you in seeking appropriate care.

I take confidentiality seriously and make every reasonable effort to protect your privacy while adhering to the ethical principles in psychotherapy. However, there are limits to confidentiality, particularly in the context of clinical supervision ethics and professional standards in psychology, as required by law. These limits may include situations involving: Risk of harm to self or others, abuse or neglect of vulnerable individuals, and court orders or legal requirements. The specific limits to confidentiality relevant to your work with me will be discussed clearly at the outset.

Clear boundaries are essential to ethical and effective work, especially when considering clinical supervision ethics. Because I offer multiple forms of service—psychotherapy, supervision, and spiritual direction—I take care to avoid overlapping roles that could compromise clarity or safety. In some cases, this may mean declining or ending one form of work in order to protect the integrity of another, in line with ethical principles in psychotherapy. My intention is always to serve your best interests and uphold professional standards in psychology, even when that requires thoughtful limits.

I am committed to offering care that honors the inherent dignity of every person while adhering to the ethical principles in psychotherapy. My work is grounded in respect for differences of belief, identity, culture, spiritual orientation, and life experience, reflecting the professional standards in psychology. I welcome people of all backgrounds and do not seek to impose any particular religious, spiritual, or philosophical framework, ensuring that my approach aligns with clinical supervision ethics.

If you have questions about clinical supervision ethics, boundaries, or the nature of our work together, I welcome those conversations. Adhering to ethical principles in psychotherapy is essential, as ethical practice depends on openness, mutual understanding, and trust. You are encouraged to raise concerns at any time. Upholding professional standards in psychology is part of the path toward wholeness.