Ethics code
PsychHeal isn't regulated like a hospital. That doesn't mean we get to skip the rules. Here is the ethical floor we hold ourselves to.
Principles
- Do no harm, first.
Every tool, every page, every AI response is reviewed against safe-messaging guidelines (WHO, Samaritans, #chatsafe) before shipping. We never glamourise self-harm or suicide methods.
- Evidence over vibes.
Our techniques are drawn from CBT, ACT, MBCT, motivational interviewing, and meaning-centered therapy — with citations on the /evidence page. When evidence is mixed, we say so.
- Privacy is a clinical value.
Mental-health data is sensitive. We collect the minimum, encrypt what's private, and never sell or share it. See /privacy and /gdpr.
- AI with consent, not by surprise.
The AI companion is clearly labelled as AI. It will not pretend to be a clinician. It encourages real human help in crisis. You can turn AI memory off in /settings/privacy.
- Crisis routing is non-negotiable.
Any signal of acute risk in the AI companion or Echoes triggers an immediate route to /get-help and local crisis lines. We do not 'hold space' for someone in danger — we help them reach a person.
- Lived experience, named openly.
PsychHeal is built by someone who survived bullying, cancer, depression and suicidal thoughts. That experience informs the tone — and is disclosed, not hidden.
Codes & standards we align with
- We follow the WHO safe-messaging guidelines for mental-health and suicide content.
- We follow #chatsafe guidelines for AI-mediated conversations about distress.
- We follow the BPS Code of Ethics & Conduct (2021) for psychology-graduate authored content.
- We follow the GDPR for all EU users, regardless of where they live.
- We follow WCAG 2.2 AA accessibility goals — see /accessibility.
- We disclose AI use, model providers, and limitations on the page where AI is used.
- We will publish an annual transparency report covering safety escalations and data requests.
Report a concern
If something on PsychHeal feels unsafe, misleading, or harmful — please tell us. Email ethics@psychheal.app. We will read every message.
See also: Privacy charter · GDPR · Get help now.