NAIC Code of Ethics

Code of Ethics: Section One

Native American Indigenous Church is a Christian community of Native Americans and other Indigenous Peoples. It accepts Peyote as central to its traditional and established religious beliefs. The church also honors the natural products of Mother Earth and Great Nature as sacred. These include the bounty of herbs and plants, the mineral kingdom, and the elements of Fire, Earth, Water, and Air. Peyote and these other natural gifts are regarded as primary Indigenous, earth-based, Christ-centered healing sacraments (Eucharist) for this church.

The Spiritual Leaders of the Native American Indigenous Church include Clergy, Medicine Men and Women, Pastors, Ministers, and Counselors. They are known by many sacred callings, such as Therapist, Practitioner, Counselor, Chasta, Curandera, Elder, Mara’akame, Roadman, Sacred Prayer Pipe Carrier, Water Pourer, Minister, and others. These leaders are individuals who are experienced in American Native spiritual practices and who assist and guide the spiritual exercises of others. Medicine Persons, Ministers, Clergy, Counselors, Practitioners, Healers, and Therapists within N.A.I.C. do not need to claim exclusive or definitive knowledge of their practice. Their wisdom and competence are understood to develop over many years of observation, experience, and service.

The primary purpose of Native American Indigenous Church is to live and practice Native American religion, philosophy, and way of life, and to administer Sacramental Ceremonies. At the same time, any N.A.I.C. Medicine Person, Minister, Clergy member, Therapist, Counselor, or Practitioner is always free to decline to administer a sacrament during a particular American Native or Indigenous ceremony. The exercise of conscience and spiritual discernment is respected and protected.

Native American Indigenous Church recognizes a wide range of Indigenous ceremonies from North and South America. These include, among others, Birth, Breath, Holy Anointing (Chirothesia and Laying on of Hands), Nature Cure, Energy, Vibrational and Spiritual Healing, SomaVeda Integrated Traditional Therapies®, Ayurveda, Thai Yoga, Traditional Thai Massage, Healing Touch and Chirothesia (hands-on spiritual intervention as a divine or sacerdotal duty) for healing, Natural Medicine and Traditional Naturopathy, Marriage, Passing Over, Prayer Pipe, Sacrament, Spirit Dance, Sun Dance, Sweat Lodge, Vision Quest, and Water Baptism. Ceremonies such as Birth, Sun Dance, Sweat Lodge, and Vision Quest, in particular, may involve profound mental, emotional, and physical transformation.

When a member or Authorized Participant chooses to take part in any American Native ceremony with the assistance of a Native American Indigenous Church Medicine Person, both the participant and the Medicine Person accept special responsibilities and shared understandings. These include mutual respect, clear communication, and a commitment to the spiritual, emotional, mental, and physical well-being of everyone involved.

1) Respect

Native American Indigenous Church Independent Branch and Auxiliary Medicine People, along with authorized Traditional Medicine and Healing Arts Ministers and Providers, are expected to practice and serve in ways that foster awareness, empathy, and wisdom for all N.A.I.C. Members and Authorized Participants. This standard applies during all healing work, treatments, counseling sessions, and ceremonies.

2) Preparation and Safety

Native American Indigenous Church Authorized Participants agree to follow and comply with all guidance and instructions given by the designated director or Medicine Person beginning one hour before the ceremony, throughout the ceremony itself, and for at least three hours afterward. This preparation and follow-through are essential for safety, clarity, and respectful participation.

3) Inspiration and Change

Native American Indigenous Church spiritual practices are carried out in ways that honor the common good, while also respecting public safety, health, and order. Medicine People are expected to take special care in how they guide and work with the energies of those they serve, as well as their own energy, in ways that reflect a loving and respectful regard for all life.

In many cases, increased awareness gained through American Native spiritual ceremonies can awaken a strong desire for personal or social change in a Member or Authorized Participant’s life. These changes should normally be considered carefully, with deep introspection, and with attention to how such changes may affect family, community, and other beings connected to the participant. Medicine People are called to support this process thoughtfully and responsibly.

4) Consent of Participant

The autonomy and dignity of every Member and Authorized Participant are to be respected and protected by Native American Indigenous Church Medicine People. Participation in any N.A.I.C. spiritual therapy, counseling, healing program, seminary, course, class, A.C.N.M. Degree Program, Thai Yoga Center certificate course, or any ceremony or ritual must be voluntary. It must also be based on prior disclosure and informed consent, given while the participant is in a normal and unimpaired state of consciousness.

a. Existing Conditions

Disclosure must include, at a minimum, a clear discussion of any aspects of the ceremony that could reasonably present physical or psychological risks. First-time Authorized Participants, in particular, need to be informed that American Native Ceremonies can be complex, intense, and deeply transforming.

b. Watchfulness

The health and safety of participants during the ceremony, and during the vulnerable period in the hours that follow, must be watched over carefully. Medicine People are responsible for making proper preparations and for maintaining a safe, attentive environment.

c. Limitations

Any limits on the behaviors of Members, Authorized Participants, and Medicine People during a ceremony must be made clear in advance and agreed upon before the ceremony begins.

d. Confidentiality and Customs

N.A.I.C. cultural and religious customs, practices of confidentiality, and all Rules, Procedures, Guidelines, and Membership Agreements (including A.P.M.) are to be accepted, honored, and consistently observed by all participants and leaders.

e. Other Approaches

N.A.I.C. respects all genuine empowerment and healing modalities. This includes Indigenous Spiritual Ceremonies, allopathic medicine, Monastic and Traditional Nature Cure (Naturopathic/Monastic) approaches, and other related methods. N.A.I.C. upholds the fundamental Hippocratic principle of “Do No Harm” to the spiritual, emotional, or physical being of our earthly relations.

The church recognizes that each modality is intended to support the health and well-being of the participant and that many forms of care can be woven together in a complementary way for the benefit of all our relations. At the deepest level, N.A.I.C. affirms that true healing belongs to the realm of spirit, and that Medicine People serve as representatives of nature whenever they engage in any form of medicine practice.

5) Inclusiveness

Native American Indigenous Church ceremonies are carried out in a spirit of service. Medicine People and other leaders agree to welcome and accommodate Members and Authorized Participants without discrimination based on race, religious affiliation, biological sex at birth, cultural background, financial status, or political beliefs.

6) Vulnerability

Native American Indigenous Church Medicine People recognize that during ceremonies, healings, and Indian Health Care services, Members and Authorized Participants may become especially open and sensitive to suggestion. Medicine People commit to safeguarding participants in this vulnerable state and to preventing any use of that vulnerability that could bring harm to the participant or to others. This commitment includes a clear prohibition against any inappropriate sexual contact, misconduct, or exploitation of any kind.

7) Empowerment and Salvation

Native American Indigenous Church Branch does not claim authority to grant salvation or to perform saving ordinances. Within Christian belief, only the blood of Jesus Christ offers salvation, which comes by grace through faith in Jesus Christ. Members are referred to the N.A.I.C. Church Doctrine of Faith for a fuller statement of these beliefs.

8) International Coalition

Native American Indigenous Church participates in a wider Indigenous, spiritual, earth-based healing and empowering collective that serves individuals and communities wherever N.A.I.C. members reside. N.A.I.C. is an authorized Free Church and an Integrated Auxiliary of the Priory of Saving Grace. It is also a Florida State–chartered not-for-profit church and a U.N. (D.E.S.A.) registered Indigenous Peoples organization. The church works in cooperation with Native and Indigenous fellowships both on and off reservations.

9) Attraction, Not Advertising

Native American Indigenous Church is committed to growing through the natural attraction of humble service, integrity, and “Red Way” principles of right living. The church does not rely on aggressive proselytizing for membership but instead seeks to exemplify a way of life that others may freely choose to explore.

10) Abuse Not Protected

Native American Indigenous Church Branch in no way condones physical or sexual abuse of any person, including women, children, or any N.A.I.C. Member regardless of biological sex. It rejects all exploitation of students, members, or the public, whether during ceremony, seminary, classes, certificate programs, college programs, or in any related context. This includes any form of inappropriate sexual behavior, physical abuse, or other harmful conduct, whether in person or by any other means. N.A.I.C. observes a strict zero-tolerance policy. Any violation is grounds for the immediate revocation of N.A.I.C. membership and authorizations, without further notice. This statement itself serves as formal notice of that policy.

11) Sacraments Under the Direction of Medicine People

Native American Indigenous Church understands that any substance taken into the body may be treated as a sacrament and may become harmful if misused. The church does not approve of using any sacrament in ways that are likely to harm oneself or others. Any use of controlled or contentious substances is permitted only under the guidance and direction of N.A.I.C.-authorized Medicine People, including those holding L.C.H.T. standing, in order to remain within the protections of church law and practice.

Code of Ethics: Section Two
Authorized Medicine Persons, Physicians, Counselors, Therapists, Healers, and Traditional Medicine Providers
(Applies to Participant, Basic, Full, and Commissioned or Licentiate levels within the N.A.I.C. system.)

1) Social and Ecological Concern

Members recognize that they are an integral part of the wider community of life on Earth. They affirm the sacredness, interdependence, and inherent value of all living beings and of the Earth as the environment that gives and sustains life.

2) Right Conduct

N.A.I.C. members conduct themselves in a professional and ethical manner. They offer only those services for which they are genuinely qualified, and they represent their calling, education, certifications, professional affiliations, and other qualifications truthfully. Members agree to accurately state their level of recognition and standing within N.A.I.C. in all forms of communication, including advertising and websites. They do not present themselves as practicing medicine or psychotherapy unless they hold the appropriate license from their state or country.

Members who give or receive healing programs, sessions, or services with other N.A.I.C. members agree to abide by this Code of Ethics, the N.A.I.C. Membership Agreements, Articles of Religious Practice, and all Rules, Procedures, and Guidelines established by the N.A.I.C. Board of Directors and Elders.

3) Health History and Referrals

N.A.I.C. members maintain accurate and appropriate client records, including health history profiles covering body and mind. They discuss any conditions that might contraindicate particular procedures or techniques and make referrals to qualified medical or psychological professionals when needed. The practice of Christ-centered Native, Natural, and Indigenous medicine and healing does not conflict with respect for secular medical traditions.

4) Professional Appearance

Members and practitioners at all levels pay close attention to personal cleanliness and professional appearance. This includes clothing, linens, equipment, and the general environment in which services are offered. They seek to provide a clean, orderly, and relaxing atmosphere, attend carefully to scheduling, and communicate fees clearly.

5) Charging for Ceremony

N.A.I.C. Independent Branches do not charge for ceremonies or sacraments. Any fees or donations collected may be used only to cover hosting costs, travel expenses for leaders, lodging, meals, and similar expenses. In practical terms, branches may recover costs necessary to provide services, but they may not bill directly for the ceremony or sacrament itself.

N.A.I.C. recognizes that there are costs associated with obtaining and making sacrament available to members; however, these costs are not to be invoiced as a separate charge for the sacrament. Authorized Practitioners and above are encouraged to use their ministry, counseling, and therapeutic skills to earn a good and honest living. This is understood as the Way of Right Livelihood, ethically, morally, and lawfully practiced, in support of the practitioner, their family, the church community, and the wider community. (2 Thessalonians 3:10-12) (https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Thessalonians%203%3A10-12&version=NIV)

6) Communication and Confidentiality

N.A.I.C. members, Medicine People, teachers, educators, therapists, and physicians maintain open, clear, and honest communication with their clients, who are also N.A.I.C. members. They treat all personal and health-related information as strictly confidential. The relationship is regarded as a cleric–ministrant or minister–communicant privilege. Members explain the techniques they use in a way that appropriately identifies each method within the scope of their professional practice.

7) Intention and Trust

Members are encouraged to build and maintain trust in every client relationship. They create clear objectives and boundaries and provide a safe and respectful atmosphere in which healing, learning, and spiritual growth can occur.

8) Respect for Clients

N.A.I.C. Branch members respect the physical and emotional state of clients and do not abuse or exploit clients, students, members, or other authorized participants in any N.A.I.C.-sanctioned activity. They avoid inappropriate actions, words, or behaviors and do not take advantage of the therapeutic or spiritual relationship.

They consider each client’s comfort with touch, with the degree of pressure used, and with the nature of any modality offered, and they honor reasonable requests whenever possible within personal, professional, and ethical boundaries. Members affirm the inherent worth and individuality of every person and do not engage in unjust discrimination toward clients or colleagues.

9(A). Practice with Integrity

N.A.I.C. members present Christian, Christ-centered ministry, counseling, and coaching for other members in all areas of life. They also offer SomaVeda Integrated Traditional Therapies®, Thai-style healing arts, Indigenous and Traditional Medicine, Classical Ayurveda, and Yoga Therapy in a professional and compassionate manner. In doing so, they represent themselves, their lineage, and their practice accurately and ethically.

Members do not give false or misleading information, misrepresent N.A.I.C. or themselves to students, participants, or clients, or speak or act in ways that undermine the positive intention of N.A.I.C. They conduct their work honestly so that their conduct brings a good reputation to N.A.I.C. and its schools. Practitioner members do not issue certificates for which they are not authorized and do not certify individuals who are not adequately prepared. Only N.A.I.C. Certified Teachers in good standing, or those with higher authorization, may issue certifications, and only within the scope of their approved authority.

9(B). Ethical Conduct toward the Church and the Public

N.A.I.C. members at every level (including A.P.M., A.F.M., and L.C.H.T.) understand that all recognitions, registrations, certifications, and memberships are granted in reliance upon their agreement with the N.A.I.C. Code of Ethics. This agreement is both a precondition and a continuing condition for receiving any formal registration, authorization, or certification from N.A.I.C.

Any criminal activity or unethical behavior that harms, defrauds, or discredits N.A.I.C. in any way is grounds for immediate action. This includes theft, fraud, material or financial harm, actions that damage the reputation or standing of N.A.I.C., violations of ministry disclosure requirements, infringement or misuse of the federally registered SomaVeda® trademark, and any unethical or unauthorized use of proprietary materials, services, certifications, or representation of authorized ministers, Medicine People, therapists, practitioners, physicians, healers, or certified teachers.

Such actions may result in immediate revocation of membership, ministerial or professional authorization, and all N.A.I.C.-issued proprietary certifications, at the sole discretion of the N.A.I.C. Board of Elders.

10) Practice with Courtesy

N.A.I.C. members respect the standards and protocols of all N.A.I.C.-recognized modalities. They observe and honor service marks, trademarks, and copyright law. Professional courtesy includes speaking and writing about other ethical professionals with respect, and communicating clearly and honestly with peers and the public. They do not knowingly solicit or “poach” clients from other practitioners.

Improper or unauthorized use of N.A.I.C. names, logos, trademarks, or copyrighted materials without written permission is strictly prohibited. Such misuse may result in immediate loss of all rights and privileges and may also lead to criminal or civil action.

11) Professional Excellence

N.A.I.C. members strive for ongoing professional excellence. They regularly evaluate their strengths and limitations and seek to grow through continued education, diligent study, supervision, and training.

Agreement to These Standards

Members agree to these ethical standards as a precondition for being granted recognition and membership status. Any serious infringement or violation of this Code of Ethics may result in immediate suspension or revocation of member status and all related privileges, without advance notice.

Please note: Additional Code of Ethics provisions are required for Branch Elders and may extend these standards in ways appropriate to their higher level of responsibility and leadership.