recognize that their credibility rests not only on technical competence, but also on public trust. A satisfied client is your best means of advertising, because that person's good recommendation helps you to maintain public confidence and build a sound business following. 3 Ethics is the study of the standards and philosophy of human conduct and is defined as a system or code of morals of an individual person, a group, or a profession. The word “ethics” is derived from the Greek word ethos (character). In philosophy, ethics defines what is good for the individual and for society and establishes the nature of duties that people owe themselves and one another. To practice good ethics is to be concerned about the public welfare, the welfare of individual clients, your reputation, and the reputation of the profession you represent. Ethics are moral guidelines that are established by experienced professionals to reduce the incidence and risk of harm or injury in the professional relationship because of an abuse of a position of power. Although the terms “ethics” and “morals” are often used interchangeably, they are not identical. Morals usually refer to practices; ethics refers to the rationale that may or may not support such practices. Morals refer to actions, ethics to the reasoning behind such actions. Ethics is an examined and carefully considered structure that includes both practice and theory. Ethical principles are general guidelines rather than specific rules. A commitment to quality massage therapy, avoiding discrimination, striving for excellence, maintaining confidentiality, having a professional image and doing no harm are examples of ethical principles in massage therapy. Honoring personal boundaries and maintaining professional boundaries ensure that the therapeutic relationship benefits the client and avoids ethical problems. Ethical Codes are specific about what a massage therapist should or should not do. Acode of ethics states the ethical responsibilities of the massage and bodywork professional. Standards of practice further establish the expectations of professional conduct in regard to the law, confidentiality, business practices, roles and boundaries, and prevention of misconduct. The code of ethics for massage therapists cover three areas of professional concern including conduct in relation to performing a massage, business dealings and interactions with clients in both a professional setting, as well as within the public arena. Unlike personal ethics, which are flexible and open to debate, professional ethical codes are formally defined, mandatory standards of conduct established by and for members of professional associations to ensure quality and integrity in the profession. All state licensing authorities, professional associations or certifying andestablishtheir own standards of conduct and ethical guidelines for their members. Massage therapists need to refer directly to the organizations and academic or training institutions with which they are affiliated, as well as state, local, and national associations, to review the ethical guidelines that apply. Legal boundaries deal with the law and the rules and regulations that are set up by each state, city or county. Violations of these guidelines could result in probation, 4 limitation of practice, and suspension or revocation of licensure. Clinicians should be aware; moreover, that inappropriate sexual or physical contact can result in patients suing clinicians for battery and malpractice, and in several states sexual exploitation of a patient is considered a felony. The Therapeutic Relationship In Massage Therapy, the therapist/client relationship is client centered. All activities are designed to benefit and enhance the client's well-being and maintain or promote their individual welfare. Massage Therapists need to know how to communicate effectively, build trust and set boundaries with their clients. Inherent in the therapeutic relationship is an implicit contract between the therapist and the client. In this implicit contract the client can expect: • Informed consent prior to any treatment. • To know that his medical record and his condition will be kept in confidence. • Privacy. • Right to refuse treatment. • Always treated with dignity and respect. • Reasonable and competent care. • Clear description of the policies and practices of the massage practice. • Be able to examine and receive an explanation of their bill. • That the massage therapist is working within their scope of practice • Confidentiality Massage therapists treat individuals ethically not only by respecting their decisions and protecting them from harm, but also by making efforts to secure their well-being. Therapists bear the burden of accountability, because they are in a position of authority or power in relation to the client. The client trusts that the practitioner will act in the client’s best interests, and it is the practitioner’s duty to do so. This concept is central to professional practice and the therapeutic relationship. The client comes for an appointment at a prearranged location, receives an agreed-on treatment, for a specified length of time and an agreed-on fee. The client expects to receive treatment to address certain conditions or otherwise enhance the state of wellness in accordance with the knowledge of the therapist and dependent on the therapist's skills and education. It is the responsibility of the