This is the new edition of a Code of Ethics and Professional Practice for
all individual and institutional members of the European Association for
Gestalt Therapy. The purpose of this code is twofold; firstly, to define
general values and principles and to establish standards of professional
conduct for Gestalt Therapists and Gestalt Training Institutes, and,
secondly, to inform and protect those members of the public who seek their
services.Gestalt Therapists are responsible for the observation of the principles
inherent in the Code of Ethics and the Professional Practice and are to use
this code as the basis of good practice rather than a set of minimal
requirements.These codes are beneficial not only for the protection of clients, but are
also meant to protect the therapist by establishing standards of conduct
that clarify the boundaries of practice and accountability in the work
setting.The general aim of psychotherapy is to promote the psychophysical and
socio-environmental well being of the individuals, groups and community at
large within the psychotherapeutic relationship (preferred setting).
Gestalt therapy recognizes these goals in general, and in particular the
subjectivity of the well being of the individual as a phenomenological
entity within their field. Since the realization of this specific goal is
implemented through a dialogical approach grounded in the recognition of
the autonomy and self-regulation of the individual, these codes of practice
offer a meeting place for the resolution of difficulties between two or
more parties. The resolution of difficulties for Gestalt Therapists is
attained through dialogue and exchange as opposed to a hierarchical system
of judgment and consequences.These codes are applicable to all individual and institutional members of
the European Association for Gestalt Therapy on an international level.
When a discrepancy between this code and national codes occur, the
conditions of the national code take preference. This code is subject to
revision in the event that it proves inadequate in the practical
application as standards of professional conduct.The code is divided into two sections. The first section states those
values and principles that are inalienable rights of the individual. The
second section demonstrates guidelines that honour and protect these rights.All members of the EAGT agree to have a complaints procedure to report and
evaluate the violations of their Code of Ethics and Professional Practice.Each member will adopt and adhere to, together with the Code of Ethics and
Professional Practice, the rules for Complaints Procedures.The EAGT Ethics Committee is responsible for maintaining an overview of the
Code of Ethics and Complaints Procedures for national umbrella
organizations and, where relevant, national awarding organizations. Click
here <http://www. eagt. org/pdf/Ethics_Code_&_Complain ts_Procedure_2015.pdf >if
you would like to read to complete document.
