Accepted: December 8, 2019 

Updated: February 12, 2023 

Code of Conduct  - Guiding Principles

SFV-CAMFT’s Code of Conduct is a set of behaviors that are to be displayed by each individual based on respect and integrity. Each individual is to follow these guiding principles by the letter and the spirit of the following codes.

As professionals and members of SFV-CAMFT, attendees of SFV-CAMFT events or sponsored activities, or community members engaging with SFV-CAMFT we commit to upholding the following:

Inclusiveness

Whereas one of our core values is diversity, we welcome and encourage it in all areas. Individuals will find strength in diversity.

In this mindset, it’s important to allow space for others’ viewpoints. During interactions, individuals will support and encourage others by allowing opportunities for others to share their differing viewpoints. Individuals will not interrupt or devalue another member. Individuals will self-monitor their behaviors to ensure others have opportunities to share and participate.

Individuals will welcome and show respect toward people of all backgrounds and identities. This includes, but is not limited to members of any sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, race, ethnicity, culture, national origin, social and economic class, educational level, color, immigration status, sex, age, size, family status, political belief, religion, and mental and physical ability.

Consideration

Individuals will be aware of other people’s personal autonomy at all times. Boundaries include, but are not limited to: physical, social, emotional, intellectual, spiritual.  Any verbal and nonverbal behaviors (be it from an individual or group) need to respect others and their rights to their boundaries.

Individuals won't agree all the time, but disagreement is no excuse for disrespectful behavior. While you may experience frustration from time to time, we cannot allow that frustration to become personal attacks. An environment where people feel uncomfortable or threatened is not a productive or creative one.

Respect

Individuals will always conduct themselves professionally. Be kind to others. Do not insult or put down others. Harassment and exclusionary behavior aren't acceptable. This includes, but is not limited to:

·        Threats of violence, aggression, or harassment;

·        Discriminatory jokes and language;

·        Sharing sexually explicit or violent material via electronic devices or other means;

·        Sexual attention;

·        Personal insults, especially those using racist or sexist terms;

·        Advocating for, or encouraging, any of the above behavior.

Individuals will not harass others. Differences of opinion and disagreements are mostly unavoidable. What is important is that we resolve disagreements and differing views constructively.

We have an obligation to lead personal lives that reflect the professional values of our profession.

Code of Conduct  - Guiding Process

The SFV-CAMFT’s Code of Conduct does not serve as a substitute for, or supplant the authority of, the CAMFT Code of Ethics, or the CAMFT Ethics Committee, as expressed in Part I and Part II of the Code, and in Article VII, Section B.3. of the Bylaws of the Association.

Compliance with the Code of Conduct is overseen by an independent committee appointed by the Executive Committee of SFV-CAMFT. This committee will consist of at least three members (a minimum of two members must be licensed) without any current disciplinary action against their MFT license/registration.

If a SFV-CAMFT member, attendee of an SFV-CAMFT event or sponsored activity, or community member that has interactions with SFV-CAMFT engages in behaviors that violate the Code of Conduct the following will occur:

·        An individual is encouraged to initially address concerns in an informal method prior to filing a formal complaint. This could be done by directly addressing any concerns with the individual or by seeking guidance from the President of SFV-CAMFT for support moving forward with resolution.

·        A formal complaint may be filed against an individual for violations against the Code of Conduct by writing a letter detailing the situation and the violations in question and submitting to the SFV-CAMFT President.

·        When a complaint is received by SFV-CAMFT, the independent committee will be formed and will investigate the complaint and make recommendations to the executive committee/Board to determine what action(s) to take. Examples of recommendations include:

·        For minor infractions, a verbal and/or written notice will be sent to the individual reviewing the code and reminding the individual that their behavior is not tolerated. A coaching session intervention to review the Code of Conduct and address corrective course of action may also be provided.  

·        For more serious infractions, an intervention meeting and/or formal coaching session will be arranged between two or more of the independent committee/Board members and the individual to discuss the infraction and determine course of action.

·        Coaching recommendations will be determined on a case-by-case basis to address the specifics of the infraction.

·        If there are multiple infractions against an individual, or if the infraction is of a serious nature, removal from SFV-CAMFT membership, events, and sponsored activities may occur.

·        At any point, and at the discretion of the Code of Conduct independent committee and/or Board, a formal complaint may be referred to or involve the CAMFT Ethics Committee for support and guidance in resolution, or to transfer a formal complaint to the CAMFT Ethics Committee for resolution.  

·        Appeals Process: If a Code of Conduct complaint has been filed and the individual disagrees with the independent committee and/or executive board’s findings, the individual has the right to appeal this decision. The individual can appeal the decision by emailing the board president with their request for an appeal. The full SFV-CAMFT Board will review the appeal request at the next regularly scheduled board meeting.  

If a complaint is made against a member of the independent committee, the SFV-CAMFT Executive Committee, or any SFV-CAMFT Board member, that member will recuse themself from the decision making process. The executive committee and or Board will appoint an alternative member to fill their position as needed.

•