Since 2024.

Methodology

1. Purpose and Scope

This Code of Ethics sets out the ethical principles, values, and standards of professional conduct for T E R Consultancy Services, Bhutan. It applies to all direct or indirectly involved with the delivery of career coaching services or representing T E R.

The purpose of this Code is to:

1. Protect clients and T E R.
2. Uphold professional integrity and trust.
3. Provide guidance for ethical decision-making.
4. Support the responsible growth of T E R.

For purpose of clarity, the following definitions from international standard bodies are shared below:

National Career Development Association Code of Ethics defines Coaching as:  

A collaborative, client-centered process that helps individuals clarify career goals, explore options, make informed decisions, and take purposeful action across their lifespan.

International Coaching Federation Code of Ethics defines Coaching as: 

Coaching is partnering with clients in a thought-provoking and creative process that inspires them to maximize their personal and professional potential.

It is important to note that Coaching is different from Counselling as Coaching focus is from the present to the future and is based on task or action based.  

This is a living document and will be reviewed and strengthened continually.

2. Definitions

1. Client – the individual or team/group being coached, the coach being mentored or supervised, or the coach or the student coach being trained.
2. T E R – means T E R Consultancy Services.
3. Coaching- partnering with Clients in a thought-provoking and creative process that inspires them to maximize their personal and professional potential.
4. Coaching Relationship – a relationship that is established by T E R and the Client(s)/Sponsor(s) under an agreement or a contract that defines the responsibilities and expectations of each party.
5. Code – means T E R Code of Ethics
6. Confidentiality – protection of any information obtained around the coaching engagement unless consent to release is given.
7. Conflict of Interest – a situation in which an T E R Coach is involved in multiple interests, where serving one’s interest could work against or conflict with another. This could be financial, personal or otherwise.
8. T E R Coach – an individual who is employed within an organization and coaches either part-time or full-time the employees of that organization.
9. Sponsor – the entity (including its representatives) paying for and/or arranging or defining the coaching services to be provided.

3. Core Values

T E R is guided by the following core values:

1. Integrity – Acting honestly, transparently, and responsibly in all professional relationships.
2. Respect for Individuals – Honoring the dignity, autonomy, culture, privacy and values of every client.
3. Confidentiality and Trust – Safeguarding client information and building safe professional relationships.
4. Professional Competence – Providing services within our qualifications, skills, and experience.
5. Cultural Sensitivity – Respecting Bhutanese values, traditions, and local context while aligning with global ethical standards.
6. Service and Social Responsibility – Contributing positively to individuals, organizations, and society.

4. Professional Relationships

1. Client-Centered Practice

1. We place the client’s interests, goals, and wellbeing at the center of all services.
2. We respect the client’s right to make their own decisions and take responsibility for their outcomes.

• We clearly explain the nature, purpose, benefits, and limitations of coaching, career guidance, or consultancy services.

1. Agreements and Contracts

A clear agreement will be established before services begin, outlining:

1. Scope of services
2. Roles and responsibilities

• Fees and payment terms

1. Confidentiality and its limits
2. Termination conditions

5. Confidentiality and Data Protection

1. All client information is treated as confidential unless explicit consent is given for disclosure.
2. Confidentiality may be breached only when required by law or when there is a serious risk of harm to the client or others.
3. Records and data (digital or physical) are stored, used, and disposed of responsibly and securely.
4. We comply with applicable laws and ethical expectations regarding data protection and privacy.

6. Professional Boundaries and Conduct

1. We maintain clear, appropriate, and professional boundaries always.
2. Dual or multiple relationships that may impair professional judgment or create conflicts of interest are avoided or carefully managed.
3. We do not engage in any sexual, romantic, or exploitative relationships with clients.
4. We remain mindful of power dynamics related to age, gender, culture, authority, or role.

7. Competence and Professional Development

All professionals associated with T E R commit to:

1. provide services only within the limits of their training, experience, and credentials.
2. encourage continuous learning, supervision, and self-reflection.
3. communicate effectively through active listening, powerful questioning and direct communication.  
4. create awareness, set goals, design actions, manage progress, and outline accountability.
5. refer clients to appropriate professionals when issues arise beyond our competence.

8. Conflicts of Interest

1. Any actual or potential conflict of interest is disclosed promptly.
2. Decisions are made in the best interest of the client, not for personal, financial, or organizational gain.
3. Referral fees, partnerships, or benefits are disclosed transparently and in advance.

9. Fairness, Inclusion, and Non-Discrimination

1. We provide services without discrimination based on age, gender, ethnicity, religion, disability, sexual orientation, socioeconomic background, or any other status.
2. We strive to be inclusive and equitable while respecting local customs and laws.

10. Professional Representation and Integrity

1. Qualifications, experience, and services are represented truthfully and accurately.
2. We do not make misleading claims about outcomes or guarantees of success.
3. Intellectual property of others is respected and properly acknowledged.

11. Responsibility to Society

1. We recognize the broader impact of our work on individuals, families, organizations, and communities.
2. We act responsibly, ethically, and with awareness of Bhutan’s social and cultural context.
3. We aim to contribute to human development, employability, wellbeing, and lifelong learning.

12. Ethical Concerns and Accountability

1. Ethical concerns or potential breaches are addressed promptly and respectfully.
2. Where necessary, guidance from professional peers, supervisors, or relevant authorities may be sought.
3. All representatives of T E R are expected to uphold this Code.

13. Commitment

All professionals associated with T E R commit to:

1. Upholding this T E R Code.
2. Acting in good faith and professional responsibility.
3. Reviewing and strengthening this Code continually.

This Code serves as a foundational ethical framework and will be refined as services, partnerships, and professional standards expand.