Code of Ethics
Our Commitment to Excellence
The Canada Hypnosis Guild (CHG) is dedicated to fostering a welcoming, supportive and professional community that advances the responsible practice, education and understanding of hypnosis.
We believe that ethical practice begins with integrity, compassion, respect and a genuine commitment to the well-being of others.
Our Code of Ethics reflects the shared values that unite our members, including hypnosis practitioners, hypnotherapists, hypnosis trainers, stage hypnotists and other professionals within the hypnosis community.
By becoming a member of the Canada Hypnosis Guild, individuals demonstrate their commitment to upholding these principles and contributing positively to the profession.
1. Integrity and Professionalism
We believe that trust is the foundation of every meaningful professional relationship.
Members commit to conducting themselves with honesty, integrity and professionalism in their interactions with clients, students, colleagues and the public.
This includes representing qualifications, credentials, experience and services accurately, communicating openly and maintaining appropriate professional boundaries.
2. Respect, Compassion and Inclusivity
We recognize the inherent dignity, individuality and worth of every person.
Members commit to creating welcoming, respectful and inclusive environments that honour diverse backgrounds, beliefs, experiences and perspectives.
We encourage compassionate communication, personal autonomy and a professional approach that supports individuals in making informed choices about their well-being and personal development.
3. Client and Participant Well-Being
The safety, dignity and well-being of those we serve are central to ethical hypnosis practice.
Members commit to providing services with care, consideration and respect for individual needs and circumstances.
This includes obtaining informed consent, communicating reasonable expectations, respecting personal boundaries and honouring each individual's right to choose whether to participate or continue.
These principles extend to private sessions, group programs, training environments, stage performances and public demonstrations.
4. Professional Competence and Responsible Practice
We value the knowledge, skills and professional judgment required to provide hypnosis services responsibly.
Members commit to practicing within the boundaries of their education, training, experience and applicable professional or legal requirements.
We recognize the importance of understanding our professional limitations, seeking additional guidance when appropriate and referring individuals to other qualified professionals when their needs extend beyond our scope of practice.
Members respect the distinct roles of medical, mental health and other regulated professionals and do not present hypnosis as a replacement for necessary healthcare.
5. Confidentiality and Trust
We recognize that trust and privacy are essential to meaningful professional relationships.
Members commit to respecting the confidentiality of personal information and handling client, student and participant records responsibly, in accordance with applicable privacy laws and professional obligations.
Personal experiences, testimonials, photographs, recordings and identifying information are shared only with appropriate consent or when otherwise permitted or required by law.
6. Honest Communication and Responsible Representation
We believe that clear, accurate communication strengthens public understanding and confidence in hypnosis.
Members commit to presenting their services, qualifications, training programs and professional achievements truthfully.
We encourage responsible communication about the potential benefits and limitations of hypnosis, recognizing that individual experiences and outcomes may vary.
Members avoid guaranteeing specific outcomes and strive to help the public make informed decisions about hypnosis services and education.
7. Excellence in Education and Entertainment
We recognize the important contributions of hypnosis educators, trainers and entertainment professionals.
Hypnosis trainers and educators commit to providing accurate information about their programs, learning objectives, qualifications and the credentials students may receive. They strive to create supportive learning environments that encourage ethical practice, professional growth and responsible application of hypnosis.
Stage hypnotists and entertainment professionals commit to creating engaging experiences while respecting the dignity, autonomy and well-being of participants. Voluntary participation, informed consent and appropriate safety precautions remain essential to ethical performances and demonstrations.
8. Collaboration, Growth and Professional Community
We believe the hypnosis profession is strengthened through collaboration, mutual respect and a shared commitment to learning.
Members are encouraged to:
Support and respect fellow professionals.
Remain open to diverse approaches and perspectives within the field of hypnosis.
Pursue continuing education and professional development.
Share knowledge and contribute positively to the professional community.
Promote responsible public understanding of hypnosis.
Celebrate the achievements and contributions of others.
Through cooperation, ongoing learning and professional integrity, we can strengthen the hypnosis community and expand awareness of the many ways hypnosis can support personal growth and well-being.
Our Shared Responsibility
Membership in the Canada Hypnosis Guild represents a commitment to these shared ethical principles.
We recognize that professional excellence is an ongoing process of learning, reflection and growth. Members are encouraged to approach their work with accountability, sound professional judgment and a willingness to continually improve.
The Canada Hypnosis Guild is committed to maintaining a professional community that reflects these values and may review concerns regarding adherence to this Code, taking appropriate action when necessary in accordance with its membership policies.
A Note About Guild Membership
The Canada Hypnosis Guild is a professional membership organization, not a licensing or regulatory body.
Membership reflects an individual's agreement to uphold the Guild's ethical standards. It does not constitute professional certification, licensure, accreditation or an endorsement or guarantee of an individual member's qualifications, competence or services.
Members remain responsible for meeting the legal, professional and regulatory requirements applicable to their work and jurisdiction.
Member Commitment
By joining or renewing membership with the Canada Hypnosis Guild, I affirm my commitment to the principles outlined in this Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct.
I recognize my responsibility to practice with integrity, respect the dignity and well-being of others and contribute positively to the professional hypnosis community.
Together, we strengthen our profession, support one another and advance the responsible practice and understanding of hypnosis.
