The International Society of Hypnosis (ISH) Code of Ethics

Revised July 2018

This Code of Ethics is intended for individual members of the International Society of Hypnosis (ISH). ISH’s constituent societies may create their own Codes of Ethics, provided these align with the overall ISH guidelines.

The ISH is committed to upholding the highest standards of professionalism in the practice of hypnosis, whether for clinical, educational, or research purposes, and in the dissemination of knowledge about hypnosis.

1. Professional Conduct with Clients or Participants

1.1. ISH members are considered professionals in their field and must adhere to the ethical standards required by their specific profession when utilizing hypnosis.

1.2. In clinical settings, ISH members must prioritize the welfare of patients, and similarly, they must protect the well-being of participants in scientific studies involving hypnosis.

1.3. When hypnosis may cause stress or other risks, it is essential to inform the client or participant, who must then provide informed consent. If ethical doubts or risks arise, practitioners are encouraged to consult with other qualified hypnosis professionals.

2. Use of Hypnosis in Professional Practice

2.1. ISH members are encouraged to undergo training that meets ISH standards before using hypnosis for clinical or experimental purposes.

2.2. Members must ensure their use of hypnosis is within the scope of their professional qualifications, certifications, and any relevant licensing. This includes the completion of professional training for clinical applications of hypnosis, recognized by the relevant authorities (e.g., health services, social services, or educational departments).

2.3. The use of hypnosis by ISH members must align with the professional duties and ethical expectations of their employers or professional bodies.

2.4. For students in training, hypnosis may be used under the supervision of a qualified ISH member, provided the student is learning in a controlled and ethical environment.

3. Private Therapy Practice

3.1. If an ISH member is approached for private therapy, they must ensure that the individual is aware of the relevant health services and educational resources available through local institutions.

3.2. ISH members should only engage in private therapy that is consistent with the ethical guidelines of their professional association and within the scope of their qualifications as recognized by the relevant health services or educational departments.

4. Teaching Hypnosis and Non-Professional Applications

4.1. ISH members should not endorse or teach hypnosis to those who have not undergone appropriate training that meets ISH standards.

4.2. ISH members must refrain from instructing individuals or groups, including those not eligible for ISH membership, in hypnotic techniques. Public lectures about hypnosis for lay audiences may be given, but these should exclude demonstrations or instructional content related to hypnotic inductions.

4.3. ISH members may consult with media representatives to inform and educate the public about hypnosis, provided such engagements are consistent with ISH’s goals and ethical principles.

5. Use of the ISH Name

5.1. Only active members of ISH may use the organization’s logo and initials after their name. Members are also encouraged to use the full name of the International Society of Hypnosis when identifying themselves to the public.

6. Hypnosis for Entertainment Purposes

6.1. ISH members are prohibited from offering hypnosis services for entertainment purposes or collaborating with organizations involved in public entertainment.

6.2. If an ISH member violates these ethical guidelines, the ISH Committee on Ethical Practices will investigate the issue. If necessary, the member may face disciplinary actions, including potential revocation of membership.

7. Concluding Remarks

No single Code of Ethics can cover all possible ethical situations. Therefore, it is expected that all ISH members—whether clinicians, educators, or researchers—abide by their own professional codes of conduct and the relevant laws and regulations of their respective countries.

Appendix: Guidelines for ISH Congress Participants

All participants in ISH congresses must agree to the following principles:

1. Use of Hypnosis within Professional Boundaries:
   Members must only use hypnosis for clinical or therapeutic purposes if they are qualified to do so, according to the guidelines of their respective health services or educational institutions. They should limit their practice to areas in which they are recognized as qualified professionals.

2. Abiding by Professional Standards:
   Participants must ensure that their use of hypnosis is fully compatible with the ethical rules of their professional association and the standards set by their employers or organizations. Any clinical use of hypnosis should be within the scope of recognized qualifications and certifications.