TSM Coach Code of Ethics

A TSM Coach strives to do no harm. It takes vulnerability to ask for help, which is why a TSM Coach must always be mindful to conduct themselves in a way that does not harm those in the TSM community, whether or not they are paid clients.

A TSM Coach practices respect. Respect for the individual, respect for other coaches, and respect for other treatment modalities are minimum expectations for a TSM Coach. The client/coaching relationship is one built on trust. Trust is difficult to build, and simple to destroy. Individuals on TSM may have prior experience in treatments where they were not respected, and therefore they may have heightened sensitivities to being dismissed or disrespected.

A TSM Coach does not misrepresent their position. Professional TSM Coaches are not licensed therapists, social workers, or counselors unless they have completed the appropriate training and coursework, along with any licensing requirements for those professions. Peer support coaches are not trained or credentialed for paid TSM coaching.

A TSM Coach does not discriminate. Alcohol use disorder affects individuals across all demographics. It is the responsibility of a TSM Coach to set aside their own beliefs, biases, and socio-political leanings in order to create a safe environment for the client or peer to succeed at recovery through use of the Sinclair Method. Acceptance of an individual, including how they define themself, how they live, and what they believe, is not the same as a coach promoting the actions of that individual. TSM Coaches will provide assistance to those in the TSM community to ensure each individual has an equitable opportunity to achieve a full recovery.

A TSM Coach seeks to understand. While those fighting alcohol addiction share many commonalities, recovery with the Sinclair Method is still an individual journey. Context matters and can mean the difference between great and harmful advice. A TSM Coach listens and asks clarifying questions to ensure the client or peer seeking help is fully involved in creating the solutions that best fit their individual barriers.

A TSM Coach offers support. Recovery is not linear, even with the Sinclair Method, and many people get frustrated with themselves and the process when they perceive a setback or obstacle. TSM Coaches have the opportunity to help individuals stay motivated, practice self-compassion, and find the lessons in perceived failures.

A TSM Coach commits to continue learning. Research on various aspects of alcohol addiction continues to be published as medical and scientific advancements occur. While the science of the Sinclair Method and the process of pharmacological extinction are solid, the world is still learning about alcohol use disorder risk factors. TSM Coaches seek out additional information, whether formal or informal, to assist individuals’ efforts beyond the medication and to guide clients or peers to alternative options in the case the Sinclair Method is not the right fit for them.

A TSM Coach practices compassion, honesty, empathy and kindness. When an individual seeks out a TSM Coach, they are placing themselves in the vulnerable position of asking for help. A TSM Coach honors this by bringing compassion to their words, even when the truth itself may be difficult and harsh. TSM Coaches practice empathy while listening to, encouraging, and advising clients. They must remain honest with clients or TSM peers, while remembering that honesty is best delivered with kindness.

A TSM Coach empowers those they help to make their own decisions. Every individual who uses the Sinclair Method will have their own unique set of skills, strengths, and obstacles to overcome. They know their life and their challenges better than anyone. A TSM Coach listens to understand so they may help empower their clients to identify the solutions to reach their goals. In doing so, the TSM Coach helps reinforce independence of choice in a manner that allows those they help to rebuild trust in themselves and their ability to make healthy choices that fit their life.

A TSM Coach understands their own limitations and practices self-care. A TSM Coach is more than a coach - they are a human being who exists outside of the recovery world. It is critical that TSM Coaches practice self-care and establish boundaries that prevent vicarious trauma and burnout. In doing so, the TSM Coach is better positioned to ensure they are fully present and have the capacity to assist their clients or TSM peers. TSM Coaches do not attempt to practice beyond the scope of their credentialing or licensing, and refer clients to appropriate medical and mental health professionals when needed.