Hypnotherapy Ethics Policy - Governing Standards

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Hypnotherapy asks a client to trust a practitioner with something private: their attention, their imagination, and often the parts of a difficulty they haven't spoken aloud before. That trust is the foundation of the work, and it's earned through clear, accountable ethical practice, not assumed. As a Member of the New Zealand Association of Professional Hypnotherapists (NZAPH), I practise under NZAPH's Code of Ethics, Constitution, and Complaints Policy. These set out the obligations every NZAPH Member holds toward their clients and the public.

Confidentiality

What's shared in session stays private, with the narrow legal exceptions any health practitioner is bound by (such as risk of serious harm). Case notes are stored securely.

Informed consent

Before any hypnotherapeutic work begins, clients are told what the process involves, what to expect from trance, and that they remain in control throughout. Nothing is done without a client's understanding and agreement.

Scope of practice

Hypnotherapy is not a substitute for medical or psychiatric care. Where a presentation falls outside appropriate scope, or alongside it, referral or co-management with a GP or other health professional is recommended.

Professional boundaries

The therapeutic relationship is kept exactly that — professional, respectful, and focused on the client's wellbeing, free of any conflict of interest.

The complete NZAPH Code of Ethics, Constitution, and Complaints Policy are published by the Association and available at nzaph.com/code-of-ethics