This is being posted on the web. The author is unknown, but he or she makes some interesting points. Comments?
1. I will give you my undivided attention. However, I cannot be your parent, spouse, or lover, nor can I be master or servant. I’m just me, and I’ll be as real as I can.
2. I will make my values known to you, and will endeavour to be professionally competent at all times.
3. I will be available for you, as time permits. I am human too, and have my limitations. I get tired, bored, angry, annoyed, depressed, restless, etc. Therefore, please do not place unrealistic demands upon my schedule and my abilities. I might suffer “burnout.”
4. It is important to discuss your goals with you. What brought you here? What do you hope to achieve? What expectations do you have? How committed are you about finding solutions?
5. I will help you find the answers that are right for you, but I cannot give you advice or information (except when appropriate.) I cannot do your growing for you. You must find your own answers during and outside the process of therapy. I will accept you and your behaviour every step of the way. I accept that your values will often differ from mine. I respect all cultures and orientations, and will confront any prejudices and biases I find within me.
6. As a counselor, I can only take you as far as I have been willing to go in my own life.
7. I am strong enough not to feel disturbed or frightened by your words and behaviour.
8. I will not put my personal needs above yours. I will not exploit you. Also, I will not charge a fee for missed sessions if you give me enough advance notice.
9. I respect your privacy within limits set by law, and your right to informed consent.
10. The value of research work will not override the value of our working relationship.
11. I will ask myself, “What are my values, where did they originate and how will they affect my counseling style? How might my own problems obstruct my work as an effective counselor? How courageous and willing to take risks am I? Am I willing to do what I encourage my clients to do? What keeps me from being as open, honest and real as I might be? How do others experience me? How sensitive am I to the reactions of others ?
12. I will do my best to help you get more out of life. If I sense, however, that there is no progress being made I will inform you.