Sacramento Valley Chapter - California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists (SVC-CAMFT)

Code of Conduct  - Guiding Principles

SVC-CAMFT’s Code of Conduct is a set of behaviors that are to be displayed by each individual based on respect and integrity. Each individual is to follow these guiding principles by the letter and the spirit of the following codes.

As professionals and members of SVC-CAMFT, attendees of SVC-CAMFT events or sponsored activities, or community members engaging with SVC-CAMFT we commit to upholding the following:

Inclusiveness

Whereas one of our core values is diversity, we welcome and encourage it in all areas. Individuals will find strength in diversity.

In this mindset, it’s important to allow space for others’ viewpoints. During interactions, individuals will support and encourage others by allowing opportunities for others to share their differing viewpoints. Individuals will not interrupt or devalue another member. Individuals will self-monitor their behaviors to ensure others have opportunities to share and participate.

Individuals will welcome and show respect toward people of all backgrounds and identities. This includes, but is not limited to members of any sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, race, ethnicity, culture, national origin, social and economic class, educational level, color, immigration status, sex, age, size, family status, political belief, religion, and mental and physical ability.

Consideration

Individuals will be aware of other people’s personal autonomy at all times. Boundaries include, but are not limited to: physical, social, emotional, intellectual, spiritual.  Any verbal and nonverbal behaviors (be it from an individual or group) need to respect others and their rights to their boundaries.

Individuals won't agree all the time, but disagreement is no excuse for disrespectful behavior. While you may experience frustration from time to time, we cannot allow that frustration to become personal attacks. An environment where people feel uncomfortable or threatened is not a productive or creative one.

Respect

Individuals will always conduct themselves professionally. Be kind to others. Do not insult or put down others. Harassment and exclusionary behavior aren't acceptable. This includes, but is not limited to:

• Threats of violence, aggression, or harassment;

• Discriminatory jokes and language;

• Sharing sexually explicit or violent material via electronic devices or other means;

• Sexual attention;

• Personal insults, especially those using racist or sexist terms;

• Advocating for, or encouraging, any of the above behavior.

Individuals will not harass others. Differences of opinion and disagreements are mostly unavoidable. What is important is that we resolve disagreements and differing views constructively.

We have an obligation to lead personal lives that reflect the professional values of our profession.

The SVC-CAMFT’s Code of Conduct does not serve as a substitute for, or supplant the authority of, the CAMFT Code of Ethics, or the CAMFT Ethics Committee, as expressed in Part I and Part II of the Code, and in Article VII, Section B.3. of the Bylaws of the Association.

Created on: April 12, 2018; revised May 21, 2018; revised June 14, 2018; revised July 27, 2018; revised October 17, 2018.