Canon of Ethical Principles

AS A MEMBER OF THE

Canadian  Addiction Counselors Certification Federation, (www.caccf.ca)

I MUST:

1. Believe in the dignity and worth of all human beings, and pledge my service to the well-being and betterment of all members of society;

2. Recognize the right of humane treatment of anyone suffering from alcoholism or drug abuse, whether directly or indirectly;

3. Promote and assist in the recovery and return to society of every person served, assisting them to help themselves, and referring them promptly to other programs or individuals when in their best interests;

4. Maintain a proper professional relationship with all persons served, assisting them to help themselves, and referring them promptly to other programs or individuals, when in their best interests;

5. Adhere strictly to established precepts of confidentiality in all knowledge, records and materials concerning persons served, and in accordance with any current government regulations;

6. Ensure that all interpersonal transactions between myself and persons served are non-exploitive and essential to their good recovery;

7. Give due respect to the rights, views and positions of any other alcoholism and/or drug counselors and related professionals;

8. Respect institutional policies and procedures, and cooperate with any agency management with which I may be associated, as long as this remains consistent with recognized standards, procedures and ethics;

9. Contribute my ideas and findings regarding alcoholism and other drug addictions and their treatment and recovery, to any body of knowledge, through appropriate channels;

10. Refrain from any activities, including the abuse of alcohol, drugs or other mood-altering chemicals where my personal conduct might diminish my personal capabilities, denigrate my professional status, or constitute a violation of law;

11. Avoid claiming or implying any personal capabilities or professional qualifications beyond those I have actually attained, recognizing that competency gained in one field of activity must not be used improperly to imply competency in another;

12. Regularly evaluate my own strengths, limitations, biases, or levels of effectiveness, always striving for self-improvement and seeking professional development by means of further education and training.