Client Rights, Informed Consent, & Confidentiality
Clients’ Bill of Rights
A Client's Bill of Rights in a coaching relationship outlines the ethical and legal expectations for both the coach and the client. It ensures a transparent, respectful, and productive coaching experience by defining the boundaries, responsibilities, and rights within the coaching agreement. At the very least, clients should be informed of the cost of professional services before receiving the services, be assured of privacy and confidentiality while receiving services as defined by rules and law (for limits, see section on Confidentiality), and be free from being the object of discrimination based on race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, objectification, or other unlawful categories while receiving services. Here's a breakdown of what a typical Coaching Client Bill of Rights might include:
Rights Related to the Coaching Relationship:
Respectful Treatment: Clients have the right to be treated with dignity, respect, and empathy throughout the coaching process.
Informed Consent: Clients should be fully informed about the coaching process, including the coach's qualifications, the nature of the coaching relationship, the methods used, and the associated fees and policies.
Confidentiality: Clients have the right to privacy, and coaches should not disclose confidential information without the client's consent, except when legally required.
Safe Environment: Clients have the right to a safe and supportive environment free from any form of abuse, harassment, or exploitation.
Clear Expectations: Clients should understand the objectives of the coaching relationship and have a clear understanding of what they can expect from the coach.
Transparency: The coaching relationship should be transparent, with clear communication about costs, billing policies, and any potential conflicts of interest.
Right to Ask Questions: Clients can ask questions about their coaching, the coach's qualifications, or any aspect of the coaching process.
Right to Terminate: Clients have the right to terminate the coaching relationship if they are not satisfied with the services or progress, or if their needs change.
Access to Records: Clients may have the right to access their coaching records, or a summary of those records, as defined by the coach's policies and relevant laws.
Rights Related to the Coach's Responsibilities:
Professional Competence: Coaches should be qualified, trained, and experienced in the areas they offer coaching services.
Ethical Conduct: Coaches should adhere to a code of ethics, such as the NBHWC Code of Ethics, ensuring they act with integrity and professionalism.
Best Practices: Coaches should use evidence-based practices and continually update their knowledge and skills.
Appropriate Scope of Practice: Coaches should be clear about their scope of practice and not provide services that are outside their area of expertise.
Referral: If a client's needs are outside the coach's scope or expertise, the coach should be willing to refer the client to another qualified professional.
Rights Related to the Coaching Agreement:
Clear Contract: .Opens in new tab: The coaching relationship should be governed by a clear coaching agreement that outlines the terms and conditions of the coaching relationship, including the scope of work, fees, payment schedule, and termination policies.
Cancellation and Refund Policies: .Opens in new tab: The agreement should clearly define the cancellation and refund policies for both the client and the coach.
Benefits of a Client's Bill of Rights:
Empowers Clients: Knowing their rights empowers clients to make informed decisions about their coaching experience.
Builds Trust: A clear Bill of Rights builds trust and confidence in the coaching relationship.
Promotes Ethical Practice: It ensures coaches adhere to ethical and professional standards.
Reduces Misunderstandings: It helps prevent misunderstandings and conflicts by clarifying expectations and boundaries.
By understanding and upholding a Client's Bill of Rights, both coaches and clients can create a positive, productive, and ethical coaching experience, according to some coaching organizations.