Ethics Framework

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About Course

This course is designed to support IEMT practitioners in developing a robust, reflective, and professional approach to ethical practice.

Grounded in psychological and medical ethics principles and aligned with relevant legal standards, the course explores key areas such as informed consent, confidentiality, safeguarding, boundaries, and working with children and young people.

Whether you are newly certified or an experienced practitioner, this series will help you navigate complex real-world scenarios with confidence and integrity—ensuring that your work is effective, ethically sound, and client-centred.

What Will You Learn?

  • Understand and apply the core principles of ethical therapy practice
  • Recognise and manage boundaries and dual relationships with clients
  • Confidently obtain informed consent and assess client capacity
  • Navigate confidentiality, data protection, and legal reporting duties
  • Apply safeguarding procedures, especially with children and young people
  • Use supervision effectively to support ethical decision-making
  • Respond professionally to complaints and ethical dilemmas
  • Develop confidence in applying ethics through real-life case reflections

Course Content

1. Introduction to Ethics in IEMT
This lesson introduces the foundational concepts of ethics, why they matter in therapy, and how they apply specifically to Integral Eye Movement Technique (IEMT).

1.2 Core Ethical Principles in IEMT
In this lesson, we build on the foundation from Lesson 1.1 by exploring the five core ethical principles that underpin ethical therapeutic practice. These principles help IEMT practitioners navigate the complexities of client work with integrity, safety, and professionalism.

2.1 Informed Consent and Assessing Capacity
In this lesson, we focus on informed consent—a cornerstone of ethical therapeutic practice—and how to assess a client’s capacity to give that consent. This is especially relevant in IEMT, where sessions can be brief, emotionally impactful, and client-led.

2.2 Boundaries and Dual Relationships
In this lesson, we explore the importance of maintaining clear therapeutic boundaries and avoiding dual relationships in IEMT practice. Boundaries safeguard both the client and the practitioner, ensuring a professional and ethical working relationship.

2.3 Confidentiality and Data Protection
In this lesson, we examine the ethical and legal responsibilities that IEMT practitioners have regarding confidentiality and data protection. As therapists, we are trusted with highly sensitive information, and maintaining that trust is fundamental to ethical practice.

3.1 Safeguarding and Consent When Working with Children and Young People
This lesson marks the beginning of Module 3, where we explore ethical considerations when working with children and young people. We begin by focusing on safeguarding responsibilities and the unique aspects of obtaining valid consent from minors.

3.2 Communication and Therapeutic Boundaries with Young Clients
In this lesson, we explore how to build safe, respectful, and effective therapeutic relationships with children and young people. Strong communication and clear boundaries are key to supporting change work in a way that is both ethical and developmentally appropriate.

3.3 Managing Disclosures and Reporting Obligations
In this final lesson of Module 3, we focus on how to manage disclosures of harm or risk and understand your reporting obligations. IEMT practitioners must be prepared to respond ethically and confidently when a young person shares sensitive or concerning information.

4.1 Practicing with Integrity and Professionalism
Welcome to Module 4 of the Ethics in IEMT Practice series. This module addresses the core values and behaviours that underpin professional conduct in therapy. In Lesson 4.1, we focus on what it means to practice with integrity and how to embody professionalism in every client interaction.

4.2 Navigating Ethical Dilemmas and Grey Areas
In Lesson 4.2, we explore the complexities of real-world ethical decision-making. Not every situation has a clear-cut answer—ethical dilemmas often emerge in the “grey areas” where multiple principles may conflict. This lesson will give you tools to think critically and act responsibly in these situations.

4.3 Complaints, Supervision, and Ongoing Ethical Development
In this final lesson of Module 4, we focus on how to maintain ethical standards over time through effective supervision, a proactive approach to complaints, and ongoing professional development. Ethical practice is not static—it evolves with reflection, feedback, and growth.

5.1 Case Reflection: Ethical Practice with Adult Clients
Welcome to Module 5, where we apply the ethical principles explored in previous lessons to real-life scenarios. In Lesson 5.1, we reflect on ethical decision-making in sessions with adult clients. This applied approach strengthens your capacity to act with integrity under complex, real-world conditions.

5.2 Case Reflection: Ethical Practice with Children and Young People
In Lesson 5.2, we extend our case reflections to working with minors. These scenarios illustrate the additional sensitivities and responsibilities involved when supporting children and young people with IEMT. Practitioners must balance therapeutic intent with safeguarding, consent, and developmental awareness.

5.3 Ethical Dilemma Simulations and Reflective Integration
Congratulations on reaching the final lesson of the Ethics in IEMT Practice series. In Lesson 5.3, we bring together everything you've learned through a set of interactive ethical dilemma simulations. These scenarios are designed to challenge your thinking, reinforce your knowledge, and prepare you for complex decision-making in your professional practice.

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