1. Respect

We honor the inherent dignity, rights, and diverse experiences of every individual by fostering inclusive, culturally safe spaces and relationships.

Respect is demonstrated by:

• 1.1 Upholding human rights and treating every individual with dignity, free from discrimination and bias.
• 1.2 Recognizing clients' autonomy, including the right to accept or decline services without judgment.
• 1.3 Practicing self-awareness to identify and disrupt personal biases in service delivery.
• 1.4 Collaborating meaningfully with clients and their support systems to co-create goals and priorities.
• 1.5 Providing accessible, transparent information to empower clients’ decision-making.

2. Integrity

We act with honesty, fairness, and transparency, building trust through ethical, culturally responsive, and accountable practice.

Integrity is demonstrated by:

• 2.1 Building trust through professional conduct, cultural humility, and respectful communication.
• 2.2 Communicating service options and associated costs with clarity and transparency.
• 2.3 Representing qualifications and competencies accurately, with acknowledgment of lived experiences and cultural knowledge.
• 2.4 Exercising professional judgment free from undue influence, prioritizing ethical decision-making.
• 2.5 Advocating for therapeutic recreation’s role in advancing inclusive, equitable health care.

3. Competence

We are committed to delivering high-quality, culturally responsive services by continuously growing our knowledge, skills, and understanding of diverse needs.

Competence is demonstrated by:

• 3.1 Adhering to Standards of Practice and evolving competencies that reflect inclusive, equitable care.
• 3.2 Engaging in lifelong learning to meet the needs of diverse communities.
• 3.3 Providing services within areas of expertise, seeking collaboration when outside scope.
• 3.4 Refraining from providing services when impaired and prioritizing wellness.
• 3.5 Supporting professional growth through mentorship, knowledge-sharing, and culturally responsive guidance.
• 3.6 Documenting services thoughtfully to reflect growth, outcomes, and evolving care needs.
• 3.7 Making timely referrals when specialized care is needed beyond one’s scope.
• 3.8 Collaborating across disciplines to provide comprehensive, culturally safe health care.

4. Non-Maleficence

We commit to doing no harm by fostering safe, respectful environments and relationships that protect clients, communities, and the integrity of the profession.

Non-Maleficence is demonstrated by:

• 4.1 Maintaining clear, ethical boundaries to prevent exploitation or harm.
• 4.2 Taking responsibility for actions, addressing harm transparently, and ensuring accountability.
• 4.3 Reporting unethical or harmful practices to appropriate authorities with integrity and care.
• 4.4 Safeguarding personal and health information, with disclosures made only when legally or ethically required.
• 4.5 Prioritizing safety and well-being in all programs, environments, and professional relationships.