At Alpha House, we uphold an exemplary standard of care, governed by rigorous oversight from the College of Psychotherapists, the College of Social Workers, the Canadian Addiction Counsellor Certification Federation (CACCF), the Association of Traumatic Stress Specialists, the Ontario Ministry of Health, and the Government of Canada. Each of these regulatory bodies enforces a unique, standardized professional code of conduct, ensuring best practices across all facets of our services. Primarily, we adhere to the ethical standards of the CACCF, while maintaining full compliance with the professional standards and ethical practices set forth by each governing organization.

Canon of Ethical Principles

As a member of the Canadian Addiction Counsellors Certification Federation, I am committed to the following ethical principles:

1. Dignity and Inclusivity
   I affirm the intrinsic worth of all individuals, respecting diversity across all races, spiritual beliefs, gender identities, and sexual orientations.

2. Service Pledge
   My service is dedicated to the well-being of all society members, fostering positive outcomes and societal betterment without discrimination.

3. Culturally Sensitive, Evidence-Based Care
   I acknowledge the right of each individual experiencing substance use disorder or behavioral addiction to access culturally responsive, evidence-based treatment.

4. Promotion of Recovery
   I commit to supporting every individual’s journey to recovery and wellness.

5. Right to Self-Determination
   I respect each person’s autonomy, referring them to alternative programs or professionals when in their best interest.

6. Professional Boundaries
   I maintain strictly professional and non-exploitative relationships, prioritizing the well-being and recovery of those I serve while honoring my fiduciary responsibility.

7. Confidentiality
   Confidentiality is paramount; I safeguard all personal information, adhering to institutional guidelines and government regulations regarding privacy.

8. Respect for Peers
   I acknowledge the perspectives and expertise of other addiction counselors and allied professionals.

9. Institutional Compliance
   I respect and cooperate with the policies and procedures of affiliated institutions, provided they align with established ethical standards.

10. Contribution to Knowledge
    I actively contribute insights into substance use disorders, behavioral addictions, and recovery practices.

11. Personal and Professional Integrity
    I commit to upholding a lifestyle that enhances, rather than detracts from, my professional integrity, legal responsibilities, and competence. I will refrain from violating the Criminal Code of Canada.

12. Honesty in Representation
    I will not misrepresent my capabilities or qualifications, understanding that competence in one field does not imply proficiency in another.

13. Commitment to Growth
    I continually assess my strengths, biases, and effectiveness, seeking self-improvement through further education, training, and supervision.

Social Media Conduct

Engagement on social media must remain strictly professional, adhering to these principles:

• No client information may be posted.

• Harassment of individuals on social media is prohibited.

• Avoid actions that could breach any ethical principles.

• Abstain from posts that may imply bias, breach trust, or disclose real-life situations—even hypothetically.

• Refrain from sharing files on social media.

• Do not "friend" clients or their family members on personal social media accounts.

All additional standards are accessible through the relevant links provided on this page.