I have attached file with two posts I need educated responses for each post.
Post number 1
Harry
Confidentiality is one of the most important elements in coaching, without it the client cannot open up and give you the sensitive information that is needed for a successful coaching relationship.
Record keeping and that of private information are important throughout the coaching relationship. There are several important element that must be kept by the coach:
1. Responsibility for records - they must be kept safe and no one else must gain access to them. for coaches that work mostly electronically it is important to keep their computer and data under password, all docs must have a backup such as on a cloud service that is reliable.
2. All physical files and private information must be kept under lock.
3. The content of conversation must not be shared unless a written agreement for sharing has been given by the client (such as with their therapist).
4. If this is a professional business coaching client, a clear understanding of what will be kept private and what will need to be shared with the employer needs to be clear (embezzlement, spying for other companies etc.)
5. A record must be kept of each encounter and documented either by hand (legible), audio, or video recording.
6. Have a clear reporting policy in the coaching agreement, such as, harm to self or others.
7. Privacy of financial records such as credit cards or checks must be agreed upon, or disposed of (shredded) upon completion.
Although as coaches we are not bound by the strict code of APA, we must adhere to the local regulations of our state and country.
Post number 2
Addie
Client records will be kept in a protected data base as all sensitive client information should be. All of the client’s information should be safe guarded whether it is notes from a session or anything that can be identified as belonging to that patient. This information will not only need to be kept safe but also available for the client if they need it or if it is needed for legal purposes. Relevant information such as notes on the client should be kept clear but brief. Statistical information should be kept as well as before and after outcomes of the sessions. Patient information should be disclosed on a need to know basis & when legally necessary. Privacy is important because the clients come to us in confidence that we will keep their personal and private information safe. The Code of Ethics also applies to coaching in that we are to protect the client’s privacy when creating, storing, accessing, transferring, and disposing of records (APA, 4.03).
Resources
American Psychological Association. (2017). Ethical principles of psychologists and code of conduct. Washington, DC: Author. Retrieved from http://www.apa.org/ethics/code/