1. The aim of counselling is to provide an opportunity for a client to work towards living in a more satisfying and resourceful way.
   
   
2. Counselling is voluntarily and deliberately undertaken by counsellor and client. It is different from other ways of helping.
   
   
3. Before counselling starts, the counsellor clarifies with the client the basis on which counselling is to be given, including method, duration, fees and confidentiality; changes can subsequently be made only with the agreement of the client.
   
   
4. In counselling the right of the client to make his or her own decisions is respected.
   
   
5. Counsellors continually monitor their own skills, experience, resources and practice.
   
   
6. Counsellors will be properly trained for their roles and be committed to maintaining their competence.
   
   
7. Counsellors will not misrepresent their training or experience.
   
   
8. Counsellors have regular and appropriate supervision / consultative support.
   
   
9. Counsellors do not abuse their position of trust financially or emotionally or sexually.
   
   
10. All that takes place between counsellor and client is treated with respect and discretion.

(c) British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy