The Women’s Therapy Project Northwest is a membership organization of feminist therapists who are dedicated to promoting competent and ethical practice through exchanging knowledge and skills, defining ethical standards, resource networking, and mutual support. The structure of our organization is cooperative, as it encourages member participation and ownership in the ongoing function of the group. A cooperative and supportive spirit among professionals enhances the quality of our work, the success of our practices, and gives us an experience of professional community.

A.

To provide a meeting place for therapists from a variety of disciplines. These therapists share a common belief in feminist ideas, philosophy, and concerns.

B.

To share clinical and theoretical expertise with a primary focus on treatment issues.

C.

To support one another in ethical practice.

D.

To educate ourselves, our colleagues, and the community.

E.

To provide a forum for networking and ongoing sharing of resources.

The Women’s Therapy Project Northwest supports its members in practicing ethically and advocates that:

A.

Client’s confidences be kept, except when specific permission is given by the client or when disclosure is required by law.

B.

Financial arrangements be discussed and agreed upon before payment is due.

C.

Relationships with clients and former clients never become sexual.

D.

Therapists review their work regularly and seek consultation as needed.

E.

Practitioners seek therapy if they think they are in danger of violating their client’s rights by disregarding these standards of professional practice.

F.

Members ask colleagues to abide by these standards.

G.

Therapists regard seriously any clients’ reports of ethical violations and work to hold practitioners accountable.