FRBH Code of Ethics and Confidentiality Standards

At the American Board of First Responder Behavioral Healthcare (FRBH), ethics are more than guidelines—they are the foundation of trust between professionals and those who serve.

Every FRBH-certified practitioner and accredited organization pledges to uphold the highest standards of integrity, confidentiality, and cultural respect for the nation’s first responders and their families.

Ethical Foundations

Integrity and Accountability: Act with honesty, transparency, and professionalism in every interaction. Uphold the trust placed in you by first responders and their families.

Respect and Human Dignity: Treat all individuals with compassion, fairness, and respect—regardless of rank, role, or background.

Cultural Competence and Humility: Honor the unique culture, language, and values of first responders. Remain committed to ongoing education in first responder behavioral health and occupational realities.

Beneficence and Nonmaleficence: Do good and avoid harm. Center every decision on the well-being and safety of those served.

Justice and Equity: Champion equitable access to behavioral health care. Oppose discrimination in all forms.

Competence and Growth: Maintain the knowledge, skills, and training required to deliver the highest standard of care. Seek supervision or consultation when limits of competence arise.

Confidentiality Standards

Protection of Information: Safeguard all personal and professional information shared in the course of care or consultation. Adhere to all privacy laws, including HIPAA and 42 CFR Part 2.

Limits of Confidentiality: Information may only be disclosed when:

• Required by law or imminent risk of harm exist.

• Authorized in writing by the client or organization.

• Used for supervision or peer consultation in a way that protects identity and privacy.

Organizational Responsibility: Programs accredited by FRBH must maintain secure systems for storing, accessing, and transmitting sensitive data. Confidential information obtained through FRBH reviews or audits must never be shared without authorization.

Digital and AI Safeguards: When technology, telehealth, or AI tools are used, encryption and secure access are required. Clients must be informed of digital privacy protections before consent is given.

Professional Conduct

Boundaries and Dual Relationships: Avoid personal, financial, or romantic relationships that could compromise professional judgement or client trust.

Well-Being and Self-Care: Recognize that personal wellness is a professional responsibility. Seek support when occupational stress or burnout impairs effectiveness.

Ethical Accountability: Report observed violations or misconduct in good faith. FRBH prohibits retaliation against individuals who raise ethical concerns.

Enforcement

The FRBH Ethics and Standards Committee investigates alleged violations and ensures fair, confidential review. Consequences for confirmed violations may include corrective action, suspension, or revocation of FRBH certification or accreditation.

Oath of Adherence

"I affirm my commitment to uphold the ethical principles, confidentiality standards, and professional values of the American Board of First Responder Behavioral Healthcare. I will serve with integrity, cultural humility, and respect for those who serve our communities.”

FRBH is committed to accountability and transparency in upholding professional ethics. If you believe a violation of this Code has occurred, you may confidentially report it to the FRBH Ethics and Standards Committee.