Code of Ethics and Standards

The Code of Ethics of the National Guild of Hypnotists

The National Guild of Hypnotists requires its members to conform to the following ethical principles, and shall hold members accountable for any departure from these principles, which may include revocation of membership.

A. Client Welfare: Members shall make the physical and mental well-being of each client a prime consideration.

B. Client Safety: Members shall not engage in verbal, physical or sexual abuse of any client.

C. Practice Limits: Members shall use hypnotism strictly within the limits of their training and competence and in conformity to the laws of their state.

D. Advertising: Members shall be truthful in their advertising.

E. Credentials: Members shall always be honest about the nature of their titles and degrees when referring to them to the general public, the media, and within the confines of our profession.

F. Complementary Practice: Members shall neither diagnose, treat nor prescribe for clients regarding issues related to medical or mental health conditions. Members shall work with clients only with the intent to enhance the client’s own natural restorative and coping abilities, and will make no therapeutic claims.

G. Reasonable Practice: Members shall withhold non-referred hypnotic services if a client’s behavior, appearance or statements would lead a reasonable person to believe that the client should be evaluated by a licensed health care professional. Members shall provide services to such clients only after evaluation and with the approval of the licensed health care professional.

H. Colleagues: Members shall treat hypnotist colleagues without public defamation.