A clear ethical framework for certified pastoral counselors, chaplains, and Christian care providers serving with integrity, competence, responsibility, confidentiality, and respect for human dignity.
Ethics Review Process Contact GAOCPCThis Code of Ethics outlines the ethical principles and values that guide all members of the Global Association of Certified Pastoral Counselors and informs the public of the standards of ethical conduct for which members are responsible and accountable.
This Code reflects values such as godliness, integrity, competence, responsibility, cultural sensitivity, and public trust. It supports the goals and mission of GAOCPC and its members.
GAOCPC members are expected to uphold these foundations in counseling, chaplaincy, ministry, and public service.
Serving with reverence, humility, compassion, prayerfulness, and Christian character.
Acting honestly and representing training, credentials, and professional role truthfully.
Practicing within training, maintaining competency, and making referrals when needed.
Accepting accountability for conduct, decisions, documentation, and professional service.
Respecting cultural, religious, social, and personal differences with dignity and care.
Using spiritual authority responsibly and avoiding manipulation, coercion, exploitation, or abuse.
All GAOCPC members are responsible to be familiar with this Code and its application to everyday conduct, counseling practice, and the resolution of ethical dilemmas.
Ethical dilemmas may arise in counseling practice. The Christian counselor is responsible to prayerfully and carefully apply the relevant ethical principles, consider the facts, seek appropriate consultation when needed, and act with accountability.
Ethical practice is not only a policy requirement; it is a commitment to God, the public, the profession, and every person receiving care.
These steps help members approach difficult issues with prayer, wisdom, documentation, and accountability.
Clarify the facts, risks, people affected, and relevant ethical standards.
Determine which ethical foundations apply to the situation.
Evaluate possible actions, benefits, risks, and consequences.
Consult supervisors, colleagues, or an ethics committee when appropriate.
Take action with integrity and accept responsibility for the results.
Review the results and correct negative consequences where possible.
Violations of the Code of Ethics may result in review, corrective action, suspension, or revocation of certification. GAOCPC reserves the right to review credential standing where ethical concerns affect public trust, safety, or professional accountability.
GAOCPC provides a public complaints and ethics review process to support accountability, fairness, and the protection of those receiving pastoral counseling care.
Ethics Complaint Procedure Contact GAOCPC