When Ethics Come First: Why I Sometimes Decline Clients

This week, I encountered a case that reminded me why ethics must always come before business. As someone who has coached athletes since 1996, been a qualified hypnotherapist since 2001, and now continues postgraduate study in mental health interventions — including CBT, ACT, counselling, and psychology — I pride myself on delivering the best, evidence-based care to every client.

But here’s the truth few practitioners talk about: sometimes, despite all the training and experience, the ethical decision is to stop treatment.

This client came seeking hypnotherapy, but after two sessions, it became clear that the unique way they processed suggestions, combined with certain underlying medical issues, meant the intervention was not taking effect. In these rare moments, a practitioner faces a critical choice: push on in the hope of results or step back, acknowledge the limits of the current approach, and recommend the client seek medical or alternative support.

I chose the latter. And I want to be clear: only a very small number of clients fall into this bracket. But when they do, the ethical path is unmistakable.

Why Ethical Partitioning Matters

Ethical partitioning means recognising the limits of your scope, training, and methods. It is about putting the client’s well-being first, not the practitioner’s ego or income. The best professionals know when to refer out, when to collaborate with medical doctors, and when to step aside altogether.

In my practice, this commitment is underpinned by:

• Decades of experience: Over 25 years working with high-performing athletes, professionals, and everyday individuals.

• Continuous study: Staying up to date with modern interventions and evidence-based practices.

• Client-centred care: Always tailoring approaches to the individual, not applying one-size-fits-all solutions.

Building Trust Through Transparency

One of the core principles of trust is transparency. I share this story not to highlight failure, but to highlight responsibility. Ethical practice is what sets apart highly qualified, experienced practitioners from the rest.

When you book with My Soul Coach, you can be confident you’re working with someone who prioritises what works best for you — even if that sometimes means stepping back or signposting you elsewhere. That is what ethical leadership looks like in therapy and coaching.

What Clients Should Know

• Most clients experience significant improvements and positive change through hypnotherapy and performance coaching.

• In rare cases where underlying issues make progress difficult, responsible practitioners will discuss this openly.

• Ethical signposting protects clients, ensures safety, and maintains the integrity of practice.

If you are considering working with me, know that you will always receive honest, evidence-based guidance aimed at helping you achieve real, lasting results.