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Code of Ethical Practice of the American Dance Therapy Association (1988)
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Code of Ethical Practice of the American Dance Therapy Association
Preface to Code:
The following Code of Ethical Practice sets forth ethical obligations of dance/movement therapists. The purpose of the Code is to define responsible professional behavior for dance/movement therapists and make this known to the community at large.
The ADTA defines dance/movement therapy as "the psychotherapeutic use of movement as a process which furthers the emotional and physical integration of the individual.
The ethical obligations set forth in the principles below are rules of conduct governing the individual dance/movement therapist and the profession of dance/movement therapy for the purpose of protecting the public, safeguarding professional standards and fostering individual moral integrity.
At this time, no state has established license structures specifically for dance/movement therapists. However, in some states dance/movement therapists may qualify for licensure under other professional titles. Members of the American Dance Therapy Association, Dance Therapists Registered and members of the Academy of Dance Therapist Registered, are advised to carefully investigate their own state license structures as a means of staying informed of professional and legal rights and obligations of therapists, as well as legal rights and requirements for private practice.
Code
A dance/movement therapist:
- Practices upon completion of professional education and training and does not misrepresent the level of training completed.
- Adheres to the treatment responsibilities of the therapeutic contract.
- Knows and complies fully, with all laws and regulations pertaining to the
- protection of the public in the practice of dance/movement therapy.
- Practices under supervision appropriate to professional status.
- Engages in dance/movement therapy practice only when identified by the American Dance Therapy Association as a Dance Therapist Registered (DTR).
- Engages in private dance/movement therapy practice or training of dance/movement therapists only when identified by the American Dance Therapy Association as a member of the Academy of Dance Therapists Registered (ADTR)
- Respects and protects the legal and personal rights of clients.
- Affiliates professionally with individuals or organizations which practice according to approved ethical standards.
- Represents the profession and the individual roles within the profession honestly; adheres to professional standards in announcing services and reporting unprofessional conduct.
- Practices solely in the areas for which one has been trained and is professionally qualified to perform.
- Plans and conducts dance/movement therapy consistent with overall treatment program of the setting.
This code is designed to be used together with the Ethical Standards of Practice of Dance Therapists Registered, Members of the Academy of Dance Therapists Registered, and Members of the American Dance Therapy Association.
Approved, ADTA Board of Directors; October, 1969.
Revised, May 19, 1973, January 24, 1974, May 20, 1977, May 19, 1979, October 22, 1981, October 20, 1983, November, 1985, November, 1988
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