1. Client/patient confidentiality must be observed at all times. The only exception to this is where consent is given or there is a legal compulsion to do so for the purpose of criminal proceedings. However, it is acknowledged that the sharing of information with professional colleagues may be necessary. In this case the client’s anonymity must be safeguarded.

2. "British Association of Hypnotherapy NLP" (BAHN) members have the responsibility of providing a service to their clients in a climate of respect for their clients' needs and rights, promoting integrity, equanimity, understanding and compassion. Members should also make themselves familiar with any obligations they may have under the Mental Health Act, 1983.

3. All members must be aware they have a duty to put the welfare of their clients first, which includes working within the boundaries of their own competence.  in the event of any difficulty arising where it would  be in the best interests of the client to receive medical assistance, or  there is a conflict of interests within the therapeutic relationship, or for any other reason where the therapist feels unable to operate within the field of his/her competency, the client must be referred on to an appropriate therapist or medical practitioner at the earliest opportunity, providing the withdrawal of services does not put the client at unnecessary risk.

4. Extreme care must be exercised by those who use regression as part of   any treatment, to guard against the risk of false memory recall, otherwise known as false memory Syndrome. A member must be sufficiently skilled to understand his/her responsibility in the correct use of language and methodology when working in this sensitive area. A therapist must not deliberately lead a client to search for evidence of abuse simply to satisfy the belief by the therapist that it must exist.

5. Members shall not abuse the trust placed in them by a person seeking their assistance by being a part of, or condoning, any behaviour which is likely to be construed as taking advantage of their position for financial reward in excess of the fees that would normally be charged.   Nor shall they abuse this trust by encouraging a relationship to develop beyond the therapeutic requirement, for sexual favour or personal gratification, or which is in any other way likely to cause distress.  It is acknowledged that strong feelings sometimes occur between the client and therapist, but these must be approached in a responsible manner and not allowed to undermine treatment.  Sometimes a change of therapist may be in the best interests of both parties.

6. All members must be aware of the importance of ongoing study and self improvement in order to maintain a level of competence that keeps pace with the constantly evolving field of hypnotherapy/psychotherapy.  This will include attendance at seminars, workshops, mutual co-operation between professional colleagues, etc.

7. It is expected of all members that they conduct their business in a way which is professional and beyond reproach.  This includes:-

(a)   ensuring that premises or facilities are suitable for the safety and  well being of the client, together with any third party who may accompany them, taking into account any obligations they may have under the  Health and Safety At Work Act of 1974.

(b)   Members must be covered by an appropriate insurance policy for public liability and professional indemnity. This should be displayed at their place of work where it is visible to their clients and anyone who has a right to inspect it.