Modern Mind Healing
An introductory text on modern theory and practice in the field of mind healing, incorporating Muggle research in psychology and the human brain.
Last Updated
05/31/21
Chapters
4
Reads
1,467
Principles Of Ethical Treatment
Chapter 3
The ever-increasing number of spells, potions, devices, and rituals available for use in mind healing means we must be more mindful than ever of the decisions we make about treatment selection. The drawback of having more powerful treatments available is the more serious risk of permanent harm as a result of seeking healing. Obviously, this is the opposite of the desired outcome.
Considering all the topics involved in the ethical application of healing is beyond the scope of this text. Those who would like to know more should consult Philosophy of Healing by Matthias Ward or First, Do No Harm by Annemarie Diggory. This is merely an overview of some of the major ethical considerations in mind healing.
Whenever possible, obtain consent before acting. Ideally, this should be the consent of the person you are treating, though there are times, such as cases of severe injury or suicidal thoughts, that it is not possible. Even if your patient is a child, you should seek consent when possible. In the event that the person you are treating cannot give meaningful consent, look to spouse and family if possible. The only time intervention without gaining consent from someone is acceptable is when it is a matter of life and death. Even if you think refusing treatment is the wrong decision, if it is not a life or death matter, accept that the patient has the right to make decisions about his or her own body and mind.
Use the least invasive effective treatment. In this case, invasive treatments are those that allow access into the thoughts and privacy of another person. Legilimency, for example, is an invasive treatment. Seek to allow others the most possible amount of privacy, while also treating their condition to the best of your ability. Similarly, do ask every question necessary for an accurate diagnosis, but do not ask questions that are not necessary for an accurate diagnosis.
Preserve the patient's privacy. Unless the patient has explicitly given you permission to share information with a particular person, do not disclose information with others. In fact, because of the amount of social stigma involved with mental disorders, it is best not to disclose even that someone is under your care. Some ethicists would even argue that if you see one of your patients out in public, unless they acknowledge you first, it's best not to acknowledge them, to prevent linking your career with that person.
Do not exploit your patient. Due to the nature of mental disorders, particular levels of attachment are common in treatment. Do not engage in romantic or sexual relationships with a current or former patient. Do not accept expensive gifts from patients, unless they have been negotiated in advance as a payment for services. Set goals, and re-evaluate the need for treatment when those goals are met. When treatment is not necessary, do not extend it.
A practicioner of mind healing is in a position of power and authority. Care must always be taken to exercise these things with responsibility.
Considering all the topics involved in the ethical application of healing is beyond the scope of this text. Those who would like to know more should consult Philosophy of Healing by Matthias Ward or First, Do No Harm by Annemarie Diggory. This is merely an overview of some of the major ethical considerations in mind healing.
Whenever possible, obtain consent before acting. Ideally, this should be the consent of the person you are treating, though there are times, such as cases of severe injury or suicidal thoughts, that it is not possible. Even if your patient is a child, you should seek consent when possible. In the event that the person you are treating cannot give meaningful consent, look to spouse and family if possible. The only time intervention without gaining consent from someone is acceptable is when it is a matter of life and death. Even if you think refusing treatment is the wrong decision, if it is not a life or death matter, accept that the patient has the right to make decisions about his or her own body and mind.
Use the least invasive effective treatment. In this case, invasive treatments are those that allow access into the thoughts and privacy of another person. Legilimency, for example, is an invasive treatment. Seek to allow others the most possible amount of privacy, while also treating their condition to the best of your ability. Similarly, do ask every question necessary for an accurate diagnosis, but do not ask questions that are not necessary for an accurate diagnosis.
Preserve the patient's privacy. Unless the patient has explicitly given you permission to share information with a particular person, do not disclose information with others. In fact, because of the amount of social stigma involved with mental disorders, it is best not to disclose even that someone is under your care. Some ethicists would even argue that if you see one of your patients out in public, unless they acknowledge you first, it's best not to acknowledge them, to prevent linking your career with that person.
Do not exploit your patient. Due to the nature of mental disorders, particular levels of attachment are common in treatment. Do not engage in romantic or sexual relationships with a current or former patient. Do not accept expensive gifts from patients, unless they have been negotiated in advance as a payment for services. Set goals, and re-evaluate the need for treatment when those goals are met. When treatment is not necessary, do not extend it.
A practicioner of mind healing is in a position of power and authority. Care must always be taken to exercise these things with responsibility.
