THE BALANCE is committed to operating with integrity, responsibility, and transparency across all aspects of its work. This section provides access to the ethical frameworks, policies, and compliance standards that guide our clinical practice, publications, digital presence, and institutional conduct. These documents are intended to clarify how we work, how we protect individuals, and how responsibility is structured within the organization.
OUR APPROACH TO ETHICS & RESPONSIBILITY
Working with complex mental health and personal situations requires clear boundaries, thoughtful governance, and respect for individual rights. THE BALANCE does not view ethics and compliance as formal obligations alone, but as integral to responsible care, trust, and long-term accountability. The policies below reflect this commitment.
PRIVACY, DATA & DIGITAL RESPONSIBILITY
These policies explain how personal information, health-related data, and digital interactions are handled responsibly and in accordance with applicable regulations.
- Privacy Policy How personal and health-related data are collected, stored, and protected.
- Confidentiality Policy Therapeutic confidentiality, its scope, and its legal and ethical limits.
- Cookie Policy Use of cookies, consent management, and website analytics.
- AI Transparency Policy How artificial intelligence tools may be used, and their limitations.
- Accessibility Statement Commitment to accessible digital experiences and ongoing improvement.
CLINICAL, THERAPEUTIC & MEDICAL STANDARDS
These documents define professional, ethical, and clinical boundaries within which care is provided.
- Medical & Mental Health Disclaimer Clarifies the distinction between educational content and clinical care.
- Informed Consent for Therapy Explains the nature, benefits, and limitations of therapeutic work.
- Telehealth Consent Conditions and boundaries for online or remote sessions.
- Ethical Code & Professional Standards Ethical principles guiding professional conduct and decision-making.
- Medical Review Policy How clinical content is reviewed and maintained for accuracy.
CLIENT RIGHTS & SAFEGUARDS
THE BALANCE recognizes the importance of clear rights, safeguards, and avenues for feedback.
- Complaints & Patient Rights How concerns can be raised and addressed respectfully.
- Crisis & Emergency Information Guidance for urgent or emergency situations, including crisis support.
- Client Terms & Conditions Contractual terms governing engagement in clinical services.
CONTENT, EDITORIAL & WEBSITE USE
These policies outline how content is created, maintained, and used.
- Editorial Policy How content topics are selected, reviewed, and updated.
- Website Terms of Use Conditions governing access to and use of this website.
LEGAL & INSTITUTIONAL TRANSPARENCY
- Impressum / Legal Notice Provider identification and legal disclosures required in certain jurisdictions.
- Sustainability & Social Responsibility (ESG) Policy Environmental, social, and governance commitments guiding institutional conduct.
A NOTE ON UPDATES
Policies are reviewed periodically and may be updated to reflect regulatory changes, evolving professional standards, or institutional development. The most current versions are always published on this page.
