Code of Ethics
Table of Contents:
- Preamble
- Core Principles
- Principles of Professional Excellence
- Professional Practice
- Relationships with Clients and the Community
- Responsibilities to the Association
- Excellence as a Way of Life
- GAEHW Member Commitment
- Conclusion
- Violations and Disciplinary Measures
1. Preamble
Members of GAEHW are professionals and organizations who have achieved a high level of mastery and influence in the field of health and wellness. We unite industry leaders, innovators, coaches, mentors, physicians, practitioners, as well as progressive companies, academies, and institutions who do not merely meet standards — they set them.
Each member of our community, whether an individual or an organization, shares common values: a pursuit of excellence, contribution to the development of the professional environment, inspiring others by example, and promoting high ethical and professional principles on a global level.
Our mission is to be a model of professional conduct, competence, and human care, advancing a holistic and science-based approach to health on a global scale.
We are inspired by international ethical standards and strive to shape a community where professional mastery is combined with deep humanity, personal maturity, and social responsibility.
GAEHW members recognize their personal and professional responsibility to promote health, well-being, and ethical leadership worldwide.
This Code of Ethics serves as a guide for professional conduct, sets standards for quality and safety, and strengthens trust among association members, clients, partners, and the broader public.
It is founded on the principles of honesty, fairness, and accountability. We are committed to acting ethically, striving to ensure that our words and actions align with the values of GAEHW.
2. Core Principles
2.1. Integrity and Good Faith
We act honestly, transparently, and respectfully, upholding high standards of moral and professional behavior.
2.2. Competence and Development
GAEHW members agree to practice only within the limits of their qualifications and to continually improve their professional competence through education and supervision.
2.3. Client Safety and Well-being
The client’s interests are always a priority. We ensure safety, informed consent, and a personalized approach in service delivery.
2.4. Confidentiality and Privacy
All personal and medical data are kept strictly confidential, except in cases required by law.
2.5. Responsibility and Accountability
We take full responsibility for our actions and decisions, comply with laws, ethical standards, and the Association’s regulations.
2.6. Equality and Inclusivity
We recognize the dignity of every person, avoid discrimination, and foster an inclusive environment regardless of cultural, physical, gender, or other differences.
3. Principles of Professional Excellence
- Be a model of professionalism in one’s field
- Foster empathy, a culture of trust and support
- Maintain ethical purity and transparency
- Respect diversity, cultural identity, and individuality
- Be leaders who inspire by example, not just words
4. Professional Practice
4.1. Scope of Practice
Work only within one’s qualifications and acknowledge the limits of competence.
4.2. Honest Advertising and Representation
Provide accurate information about services, qualifications, and experience. Avoid false or misleading claims.
4.3. Commitment to Excellence
Continuously improve knowledge through education, supervision, and experience exchange.
4.4. Financial Transparency
Clearly communicate payment terms, cancellation policies, and refund procedures. Do not exploit clients for personal gain.
4.5. Record Keeping
Maintain accurate and secure client records in compliance with personal data protection laws.
5. Relations with Clients and the Community
5.1. Client Interests
Prioritize client interests and well-being. Do not promise specific outcomes but maintain a realistic confidence in the approach’s effectiveness.5.2. Professional Boundaries
Avoid using clients for financial or emotional purposes. Maintain professional boundaries.5.3. Empathy and Respect
Listen attentively, communicate respectfully, and support clients’ emotional and psychological space. Avoid discrimination, bias, or violations of human rights.5.4. Conflict of Interest
Openly disclose potential conflicts of interest and avoid situations that compromise objectivity or trust.5.5. Culture of Support
Work for the benefit of the client and society, creating a culture of support, growth, and awareness.
6. Responsibilities to the Association
6.1. Supporting the Mission of GAEHW
Actively support GAEHW’s mission and values. Contribute to the Association’s development, share knowledge, uphold its reputation, and engage in its initiatives. Help develop international standards in the field of health and wellness.
6.2. Reporting Violations
Inform GAEHW leadership of any unethical behavior by other members.
6.3. Acknowledgment of Disciplinary Procedures
Recognize GAEHW’s right to investigate violations and apply measures, from warnings to expulsion.
7. Excellence as a Way of Life
A GAEHW member:
- Continuously improves their mastery
- Strives for innovation and scientific validity
- Acknowledges the impact of their work on society, nature, and future generations
- Embodies high ethical and humanistic ideals in every consultation, meeting, and interaction
8. GAEHW Member Commitment
“As a member of GAEHW, whether an individual specialist or an organization, I commit to being a model of professional behavior, responsibility, and a high level of awareness. I adhere to ethical standards, respect the rights and dignity of every person, and strive for ongoing development — for myself, society, and the planet. I accept this Code as a guide in my professional journey, as an expression of belonging to an international community of top professionals and reputable organizations, and as a personal responsibility to uphold and promote a culture of ethical and conscious health and wellness.”
9. Conclusion
Our Code of Ethics is based on the principles of honesty, fairness, and accountability.
Every GAEHW member commits to follow this Code, act in the best interest of clients and society, maintain high professional standards, and exemplify ethical behavior in all that they do.
Compliance with the Code and GAEHW’s statutes should not impose additional burdens on practitioners who already operate safely and ethically. Instead, it serves as a foundation for addressing issues with those who fall short of professional standards.
10. Violations and Disciplinary Measures
Any behaviour contrary to the principles of the GAEHW Code of Ethics is considered a violation, including but not limited to:
- Practicing outside one’s professional competence
- Misleading clients about qualifications, methods, or results
- Unethical, manipulative, or unprofessional conduct
- Breach of confidentiality or failure to comply with laws
- Inappropriate interactions with clients (including sexual or financial exploitation)
- Involvement in illegal, immoral, or discrediting activities
- Concealing a criminal record
Upon receiving a complaint or identifying a violation, GAEHW may initiate an internal investigation and apply disciplinary measures, including:
- Written Warning – for a first or minor violation
- Mandatory Training – additional education on ethics or professional conduct
- Probation – a period of observation requiring corrective action
- Temporary Suspension – restriction from professional activity within GAEHW for a defined period
- Expulsion – termination of membership and revocation of all privileges
- Referral to Law Enforcement – in cases of serious violations threatening client or public safety
All measures are taken with regard to the context, severity of the violation, and the member’s right to provide an explanation.