Ethics and Ethical Standards for Psychologists

Ethics and Ethical Standards for Psychologists is a CPD course designed for psychologists practising in Australia who want to strengthen ethical decision-making, professional integrity, and safe clinical practice. It is particularly relevant for those facing notifications, complaints, or fitness to practise processes through Ahpra and the Psychology Board of Australia, but is equally valuable for practitioners seeking to embed high ethical standards into everyday psychological care.

The course explores the core ethical principles underpinning psychological practice, including respect for autonomy, beneficence, non-maleficence, justice, and professional integrity. Participants will examine how these principles apply in real-world scenarios such as maintaining therapeutic boundaries, managing confidentiality, obtaining informed consent, and navigating complex situations involving risk, dual relationships, and vulnerable patients. Common ethical concerns in psychology — including boundary violations, confidentiality breaches, poor documentation, and misleading conduct — are addressed alongside their professional and regulatory implications.

Through practical case-based learning, reflective exercises, and structured guidance, participants will develop the skills to manage ethical dilemmas confidently, respond appropriately to concerns or complaints, and demonstrate insight, reflection, and remediation where required. By the end of this course, psychologists will be better equipped to meet professional expectations, maintain public trust, and sustain safe, ethical practice aligned with Australian regulatory standards.