Ethics and Professional Standards
Expert-defined terms from the Certificate in Relationship Coaching course at London School of Planning and Management. Free to read, free to share, paired with a globally recognised certification pathway.
Accountability #
The obligation of a relationship coach to take responsibility for their actions, decisions, and performance. Related terms: responsibility, ethical responsibility.
ACoA (Adult Children of Alcoholics) #
A term used to describe individuals who grew up in alcoholic or dysfunctional families and may exhibit certain characteristic behaviors and thought patterns. Related terms: dysfunctional families, recovery.
Active Listening #
A communication technique where the listener fully concentrates, understands, responds and then memorizes what is being said. Related terms: communication skills, empathic listening.
ADR (Alternative Dispute Resolution) #
Methods used to resolve disputes outside of the court system, such as mediation and arbitration. Related terms: conflict resolution, negotiation.
Bias #
A prejudice in favor of or against one thing, person, or group compared with another, usually in a way that’s considered unfair. Related terms: discrimination, prejudice.
Boundaries #
The limits and rules that a person sets for themselves regarding their relationships with others. Related terms: personal space, self-care.
CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) #
A type of psychotherapeutic treatment that helps patients understand the thoughts and feelings that influence behaviors. Related terms: psychotherapy, talk therapy.
Code of Ethics #
A set of principles and rules that guide the behavior of a professional group. Related terms: ethical standards, professional conduct.
Co #
dependency: A relationship pattern where one person supports or enables another person’s dysfunctional behavior. Related terms: enmeshment, dysfunctional relationships.
Communication Skills #
The abilities needed to exchange information and ideas between people effectively. Related terms: active listening, non-verbal communication.
Confidentiality #
The practice of keeping sensitive information private and secure. Related terms: privacy, informed consent.
Conflict Resolution #
The process of identifying and managing disagreements between two or more parties. Related terms: ADR, negotiation.
Consent #
Permission for something to happen or agreement to do something. Related terms: informed consent, boundaries.
Counseling #
A professional relationship that empowers diverse individuals, families, and groups to accomplish mental health, wellness, education, and career goals. Related terms: therapy, psychotherapy.
Cultural Competence #
The ability to understand, appreciate and interact with people from cultures and backgrounds different from one's own. Related terms: diversity, inclusion.
Diversity #
The state of variety, characterized by the presence of different individuals and groups in a particular setting. Related terms: cultural competence, inclusion.
Empathy #
The ability to understand and share the feelings of another. Related terms: active listening, emotional intelligence.
Ethical Decision #
Making: A process of evaluating and choosing among alternatives in a way that is consistent with ethical principles. Related terms: ethical dilemmas, ethical reasoning.
Ethical Dilemmas #
Situations where there is a conflict between two or more ethical principles. Related terms: ethical decision-making, ethical reasoning.
Ethical Reasoning #
The ability to think critically about ethical issues and make sound decisions. Related terms: ethical decision-making, ethical dilemmas.
Evidence #
Based Practice: A approach to service provision that relies on the best available research, clinical expertise, and client values and circumstances. Related terms: best practices, research-informed practice.
Informed Consent #
The process of obtaining permission from a client to provide a service after they have been informed of the potential benefits and risks. Related terms: confidentiality, consent.
Inclusion #
The practice of ensuring that people feel valued, heard, and involved, regardless of their background or identity. Related terms: diversity, cultural competence.
Multicultural Competence #
The ability to work effectively with individuals and groups from diverse cultural backgrounds. Related terms: cultural competence, diversity.
Negotiation #
A process of discussion and resolution between two or more parties regarding their differences. Related terms: ADR, conflict resolution.
Non #
Judgmental Attitude: A way of thinking and behaving that is open, curious, and accepting of others, without making assumptions or passing judgment. Related terms: empathy, unconditional positive regard.
Non #
Verbal Communication: The use of body language, facial expressions, and other non-spoken cues to convey information and meaning. Related terms: communication skills, active listening.
Objectivity #
The ability to perceive, think, and act without personal bias or prejudice. Related terms: impartiality, fairness.
Psychoeducation #
The process of providing education and information to individuals and groups about mental health, wellness, and related topics. Related terms: counseling, therapy.
Professional Boundaries #
The limits and rules that a professional sets for themselves regarding their relationships with clients and colleagues. Related terms: boundaries, personal space.
Professional Conduct #
The behavior and actions expected of a professional, as defined by their code of ethics and professional standards. Related terms: ethical responsibility, accountability.
Professional Development #
The process of improving and expanding one's skills, knowledge, and abilities as a professional. Related terms: lifelong learning, continuing education.
Relational Ethics #
The study of ethical issues that arise in relationships between people, such as trust, power, and consent. Related terms: ethical responsibility, accountability.
Respect #
A feeling of deep admiration for someone or something elicited by their abilities, qualities, or achievements. Related terms: unconditional positive regard, non-judgmental attitude.
Self #
Care: The practice of taking an active role in protecting one's well-being and happiness, particularly during periods of stress. Related terms, personal space, boundaries.
Social Justice #
The view that everyone deserves equal economic, political, and social rights and opportunities. Related terms: diversity, inclusion.
Supervision #
The process of overseeing and guiding the work of a professional, typically in a mentoring or coaching capacity. Related terms: accountability, ethical responsibility.
Therapy #
A professional relationship that uses a variety of techniques and interventions to help individuals, couples, and families achieve their mental health, wellness, education, and career goals. Related terms: counseling, psychotherapy.
Values #
The principles and beliefs that are important to an individual or group, and that guide their behavior and decision-making. Related terms: personal values, ethical principles.
Vicarious Trauma #
The emotional residue of exposure that results from helping or wanting to help a traumatized or suffering person. Related terms: self-care, boundaries.
Wellness #
The active process of becoming aware of and making choices toward a healthy and fulfilling life. Related terms: mental health, self-care.