Ethics Statement
HowardCenter has developed a detailed Code of Ethics to which it expects its employees to conform. These ethical expectations are outlined below:
Summary of HowardCenter Code of Ethics
- HowardCenter staff will treat all people with dignity and respect.
- HowardCenter staff will demonstrate a genuine interest in all persons served and dedicate themselves to the best interests of the people they serve.
- HowardCenter staff will not discriminate against, or refuse professional services to anyone on the basis of age, gender, race, ethnicity, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, disability, language, socioeconomic status, real or perceived HIV status, or any other basis proscribed by law.
- HowardCenter staff will maintain the confidentiality of the persons they serve, except as required by law.
- HowardCenter staff strives to improve their proficiency and performance of professional services through continued education and training.
- HowardCenter staff will not provide services when they do not have the qualifications to do so.
- HowardCenter staff will act in accordance with the standards of their professions.
- HowardCenter staff will recognize they have a responsibility to their co-workers and other professionals.
- HowardCenter staff will not assume responsibility for someone served by a colleague without appropriate consultation with that colleague, except in cases of clinical emergency.
- HowardCenter staff will explain all fees and payment expectations for services delivered.
- HowardCenter staff will not barter for services.
- HowardCenter staff will not split fees with other professionals for referrals.
- HowardCenter staff will avoid engaging in relationships that could affect their professional judgments.
- HowardCenter staff will not enter business, personal or sexual relationships with persons they serve directly, or their family members.
- HowardCenter staff will accurately represent their education, training and experience to the public.
- HowardCenter will present accurate information about mental illness, substance abuse, and developmental disabilities.
- HowardCenter staff do not engage in business and clinical practices that represent a conflict of interest or the appearance of such conflict.
- HowardCenter staff do not accept bonuses, gratuities, gifts, honoraria, or in-kind benefits that are (a) in excess of $25.00 in value and/or (b) are in exchange for clinical or business practices or behavior.
- HowardCenter staff will work to de-stigmatize mental illness, substance abuse, and developmental disabilities.
All clients of HowardCenter are urged to bring any breach or violation of this Code of Ethics on the part of any employee or agent to the attention of HowardCenter personnel.