Working relationships with clients

Effective relationships with clients call for a high standard of personal conduct. Effective practice means the psychologist: (a) is respectful, empathic and honest; (b) responds to each client's particular needs and circumstances; (c) helps clients stay involved in, and informed about, their wellbeing and draw on that knowledge when deciding about services (section 4.2); and (d) recognises the power imbalance between psychologist and client and never exploits a client physically, emotionally, sexually or financially.

• Client feedback or outcome measures reviewed in supervision
• Supervision notes discussing power dynamics in specific client relationships
• Complaints register showing no unresolved exploitation allegations, or how any were handled

• Treatment approach unchanged despite documented change in client circumstances
• Client asked for personal favours or business help