Code Of Conduct

Code of Conduct for The Association of Therapeutic Family Law Professionals

(TFLP)

The Board of Directors of the TFLP Association (the “Association”) is committed to promoting ethical behaviour, transparency, and accountability in all its actions. As stewards of the Association, all members are entrusted with the responsibility of guiding the organization to fulfill its mission, supporting the professional development of therapeutic members. This Code of Conduct outlines the ethical principles and expectations that guide the behaviour, actions, and decision-making of all members. It is expected that as a multi-disciplinary organisation we require that all members also uphold the codes of conduct of their respective professional organisations in which they are registered (for example AHPRA, APS, AASW, PACFA, QLS).

1. Commitment to the Association’s Mission and Values

  • Support the Mission: All members must support the mission, values, and objectives of the Association. All decisions made by the Board should be aligned with advancing the field of therapeutic family law and the promotion ethical practices.
  • Ethical Standards: All members are expected to adhere to the highest ethical standards, both professionally and personally, and to promote the integrity of the Association in all interactions.2. Accountability and Responsibility
  • Duty of Care: All members must exercise due diligence and care in all decision- making processes. This includes being adequately informed, prepared, and actively engaged in all meetings and deliberations.
  • Financial Stewardship: All members must be responsible stewards of the Association’s financial resources, ensuring that funds are used efficiently, ethically, and in the best interests of the organization’s mission.
  • Performance Monitoring: All members must regularly assess the effectiveness of the Association’s activities and leadership, and provide constructive feedback and support as necessary.3. Conflicts of Interest and Communication

• Avoiding Conflicts of Interest: All members must avoid situations where personal, professional, or financial interests conflict with the best interests of the Association. The Board must fully disclose any potential conflict of interests, and members should recuse themselves from decisions where such conflicts may arise.

• AGM: The Board will hold an AGM approximately every 12 months, where members will be advised of financial information complying with the constitution and regulatory requirements.

4. Respect and Professionalism

  • Respectful Engagement: All members must treat each other, Association staff, and all stakeholders with respect, courtesy, and professionalism. Differences in opinion should be handled constructively, with a focus on the common goals of the Association.
  • Collaborative Leadership: All members should foster an environment of collaboration and mutual support. They should actively listen to others, encourage diverse viewpoints, and work toward consensus when possible.
  • Confidentiality: All members must maintain the confidentiality of sensitive information discussed including identifiable client data. Information related to personnel, financial matters, or any confidential Board discussions should not be shared without appropriate authorization.5. Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
  • Inclusive Leadership: Board members must actively work to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion within the Association, ensuring that all members, staff, and stakeholders feel valued and respected.
  • Cultural Competency: Board members should remain informed and sensitive to the diverse needs of those served by the Association, including members from different cultural, racial, and socioeconomic backgrounds.6. Advocacy and Public Representation
  • Advocacy for the Profession: Board members are expected to be advocates for the advancement of psychology and the mental health field, including supporting policies that promote access to quality care, research funding, and professional development opportunities.
  • Public Representation: Board members may represent the Association in public forums, but should always do so with integrity and in a manner consistent with the Association’s values. Any public statement should reflect the official stance of the Board and be made in a respectful, informed, and ethical manner.7. Compliance with Laws and Ethical Guidelines

• Adherence to Laws and Regulations: Board members are required to comply with all relevant laws, regulations, and ethical guidelines governing the practice

of psychology, social work, counselling therapies and the operation of nonprofit organizations. This includes adherence to local, state, and national laws, as well as the ethical codes of the Association.

• Ethical Standards in Respectful Associations: All members must ensure that the Association upholds the ethical guidelines set forth by each discipline, their boards and other relevant professional bodies. They should advocate for ethical practice in all areas of therapeutic professionals in family law.

8. Ongoing Professional Development

  • Lifelong Learning: All members should prioritize their own professional development by staying current with developments in the field of family law, therapy, assessment services, leadership, nonprofit governance, and relevant legislation. This may include attending conferences, engaging in training opportunities, and participating in relevant professional activities.
  • Mentorship: Experienced Board members should support and mentor new Board members to ensure the long-term success and sustainability of the Association.9. Disciplinary Action and Consequences
  • Consequences of Misconduct: All members who fail to uphold this Code of Conduct may face disciplinary action, which could include removal from the Association at the Boards discretion. Any allegations of misconduct should be handled in a fair and transparent manner, following the Association’s established procedures for addressing such issues.
  • Reporting Violations: All members are encouraged to report any violations of the Code of Conduct or unethical behavior, and the Association will ensure that any such reports are taken seriously and investigated appropriately.Acknowledgment

    By becoming a member of this association you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to adhere to this Code of Conduct in the performance of their duties.

    This Code of Conduct ensures that the Board of Directors of the TFLP Association remains a body that operates with the highest standards of ethical behavior, professionalism, and commitment to the well-being of both the Association and the broader therapeutic family law professionals.