Our promise to one another and the public

A-CHA Mission & Values

Members of the American Clinical Hypnotists Association commit to A-CHA’s Code of Ethics and standards of quality. In every session and every professional relationship, we strive to act with integrity, respect and care. We also pledge to be good citizens: to bring our skills into our communities and help lift people who need support.

01 / In our work

Professional intention

  1. Bring the client’s wellbeing and best interests to every session.
  2. Honor each client’s dignity and individuality.
  3. Never judge or knowingly harm a client.
  4. Never exploit a client to meet the hypnotist’s personal needs.
  5. Offer hypnosis and coaching in support of the client’s expressed goals.
  6. Conduct every session with respect, care and consideration.
  7. Work only within the areas for which we have appropriate training and competence.
02 / In our relationships

Personal and ethical intention

Clients may bring deeply personal experiences to a session. Their trust calls for clear boundaries, confidentiality and conduct that puts their interests first.

  1. Serve humanity with full respect for each person’s dignity and give every client our sincere attention and care.
  2. Protect the trust placed in us; never use a client relationship to satisfy our own emotional, financial or personal needs.
  3. Conduct ourselves with propriety in professional relationships and public life.
  4. Never engage in sexual activity with a client. A-CHA considers it unethical and grounds for disciplinary action.
  5. Safeguard information shared by clients. Never use the influence of hypnosis to pursue aims unrelated to a client’s expressed goals.
  6. Preserve the conditions for a sound, respectful working relationship between hypnotist and client.
03 / In our communities

Community intention

Our skills can help people find a moment of calm and connection during difficult times. We encourage members to put those skills to work where they are welcome and useful.

  1. When tragedy or disaster affects a community, offer volunteer support where possible. Coordinate with local members and established responders, and work within training, scope and the needs of those served.
  2. When able, offer pro bono or sliding scale sessions to someone who could benefit from support but cannot otherwise afford it.

Service begins with a willingness to show up, listen and help.