Why an Ethical Framework Matters — Especially When You’re Already Carrying So Much
If you’re here, chances are you’re already exhausted.
You might feel overwhelmed, stretched thin, or unsure who you are anymore outside of being a mum. Maybe you’re navigating a big life shift — becoming a mother, parenting growing children, returning to work, relationship changes, the death of someone important to you, or simply the quiet realisation that something doesn’t feel right anymore.
When life feels this heavy, choosing a counsellor can feel like yet another decision you don’t have the energy to make. So I want to be clear about something that really matters in my work: ethics.
What is the BACP Ethical Framework — in plain English?
The BACP Ethical Framework is a set of values and guidelines that I work by as a counsellor. In simple terms, it exists to make sure that counselling is safe, respectful, and genuinely supportive.
It’s not about ticking boxes or using clinical language. It’s about how I am with you — especially when you’re feeling vulnerable, unsure, or worn down.
At its core, it’s about:
Treating you with respect and care
Taking your feelings, boundaries, and experiences seriously
Being honest, consistent, and trustworthy
Putting your wellbeing first — always
Why this really matters in my practice
When you’re already overwhelmed, the last thing you need is another relationship where you have to second-guess yourself or worry about being judged, misunderstood, or pushed too hard.
Following the BACP Ethical Framework helps us develop a therapeutic relationship where:
You don’t have to “hold it together”
You can say the things you don’t say anywhere else
You’re not rushed, fixed, or told what you should be feeling
Your pace, your needs, and your reality matter
It also means I work within clear, professional boundaries. That might not sound exciting — but boundaries are what make counselling feel safe, steady, and containing, especially when your life feels anything but.
How it helps keep you safe
When you’re tired, emotionally raw, or in the middle of an identity shift, safety really matters.
Working ethically means:
Your confidentiality is respected
The relationship stays focused on you, not my needs or agenda
I’m accountable for how I work
I seek regular supervision so I’m always reflecting on what’s best for you
Sadly, not all counsellors place the same emphasis on ethics. I do — because when you’re trusting someone with the parts of you that feel frayed or lost, that trust should be honoured fully.
Why choosing an ethical counsellor matters
You deserve more than just someone who “listens”.
You deserve someone who:
Understands how overwhelming this stage of life can be
Takes your emotional safety seriously
Works thoughtfully, responsibly, and with care
Ethics aren’t an add-on in my practice — they’re the foundation. They’re part of how I make sure this work supports you, rather than becoming another place where you feel you have to perform or cope.
Want to read more?
If you’re curious, you can read the full BACP Ethical Framework here:
https://www.bacp.co.uk/events-and-resources/ethics-and-standards/ethical-framework-for-the-counselling-professions/
You don’t need to read it all — just know it’s there, guiding how I work with you.
A final word
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, lost in the middle of change, or quietly wondering “Is this it?”, you don’t have to carry that alone.
Counselling can be a place where you feel understood and gently supported back towards yourself — safely, ethically, and at your pace.
If this feels like the kind of professional relationship you’ve been needing, you’re very welcome to get in touch and book a session.
You don’t have to be at breaking point to reach out.
