Ethics

Ethical Practice in Somatic Sex Education

Through Somatic Sex Education there is effective help available for people struggling with various challenges around sex and sexuality, and there is the potential for them to develop a sense of wholeness and wellbeing.

Professional training in Somatic Sex Education and Sexological Bodywork means that practitioners are taught to practice the profession with honesty, integrity, and competence. Our primary commitment is to the health, well-being, and safety of our clients.

Somatic Sex Education is a safe way for people to explore and heal their sexuality, because we are ethical practitioners who work within clear boundaries and roles.

Members of the SSEA pledge that:

1

The practitioner’s chief focus and primary ethical responsibility is on their client’s wellbeing.

2

The practitioner works to support the client in the experience of embodiment and empowered, enthusiastic consent.

3

When touch is included in Somatic Sex Education it is for the purpose of the client’s learning & growth.

4

During the session the practitioner is fully and consistently at the service of the client’s personal growth and learning.

5

The practitioner commits to their own professional development and ongoing self care.

6

The practitioner is aware of the potential for attraction within the client-practitioner relationship and ensures the focus is always on the client’s growth & learning.

7

The practitioner practices in a way that is free of narcissistic focus on power, admiration, or sexual gratification.

8

Entering into a client-practitioner relationship involves an intake process in which limits and boundaries are clearly set out and agreed to.

9

Somatic Sex Educators practicing as Certified Sexological Bodyworkers have additionally pledged to follow these ethics: Ethical Code

Tips for Clients & Potential Clients

For both virtual and in-person clients I suggest the following:

ensure your body is nourished prior to a session (fed, feeling rested, etc.).
do not arrive under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
my coaching and bodywork sessions are not a substitute for therapy and counselling. Although discussions about trauma, and other personal subject matter might come up, I am not a therapist. I will be able to provide referrals to mental health professionals if required.
take time after the session for aftercare for yourself (drink water, get rest, go for a walk). I will likely check in with you about this during the initial intake of our session.
for clients with disabilities, we can have a discussion prior to sessions about what accessibility needs you require. Everyone deserves access to health and pleasure and I try my best to accommodate you.
visit the Somatic Sex Educators Association Client Checklist for factors that can have an impact on a person’s ability to work effectively with a Somatic Sex Educator.

For Online / Virtual Clients:

ensure you have the technological capabilities for virtual sessions. A good WIFI connection, webcam and microphone are helpful and will ensure less frustration.
ensure you have privacy during your session. If that is not accessible consider using headphones.
ensure there is good lighting so I can see your face.
consider making yourself a cozy nest (blankets, pillows, bolsters, yoga mat etc.)

For In Person Clients:

I only offer one-way (me to you) and only ever directed by you. As I do work with couples, you may book as a couple and practice 2-way touch together.
I do not require the clients to be vaccinated, however, due to the close contact of my work I request all clients to agree to be tested before their in-person session, as close to their session as possible. Rapid or PCR tests are accepted.
I use nitrile gloves and coconut oil for genital touch. If there is a specific lube or oil you would prefer to use instead, please bring it to your session.
I ask for clients to shower right before arriving for their session. If showering is not accessible, I am able to provide that resource.

Tips for Clients

Cancellation Policy:

Thank you for choosing our business for your session(s). We understand that sometimes unexpected situations may arise, and we have developed a cancellation policy to ensure fair treatment for both parties involved. Please carefully read and understand the following terms:

Payment and Advance Notice: Payment for your session(s) is required one (1) week in advance to secure your appointment. This is to ensure proper scheduling and preparation on our part.
Cancellation and Refund: If you need to cancel your session(s) between the time of payment and one (1) week before your scheduled appointment, you will be eligible for a refund minus a $100 cancellation fee. The refund will be issued to the original payment method within a reasonable time frame.
Rescheduling: We understand that unexpected circumstances can arise, and we are happy to accommodate your rescheduling requests. If you wish to reschedule your session(s) more than 24 hours before the appointment, there will be no additional charges or penalties.
Late Rescheduling: In the event that you need to reschedule your session(s) within 24 hours of the appointment, an administrative fee of $50 will be applied. This fee helps cover the costs associated with rescheduling at short notice and ensures that we can continue to provide quality service to all our clients.
No-shows: If you fail to attend your scheduled session(s) without prior notice, the full payment made in advance will be forfeited. We understand that emergencies may occur, so please contact us as soon as possible if you are unable to attend your appointment.
Contact and Communication: If you need to cancel or reschedule your session(s), please contact Taara as soon as possible. Prompt communication helps us serve you better and potentially open up the time slot for other clients.
Exceptions: In certain cases of extreme emergencies or unforeseen circumstances, we may consider waiving or modifying the cancellation or rescheduling fees. Please contact us directly to discuss your situation in such cases.

Please be aware that this policy is in place to maintain the efficiency and quality of our services for all clients. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation. If you have any questions or concerns about our cancellation policy, please do not hesitate to reach out to us.