Our Commitment to Ethical Collaboration

Code of integrity

Mission Statement

The Long Island Professional Liaison’s Association (LIPLA) is dedicated to uniting professionals in the fields of substance use disorders (SUD) and mental health (MH). Our purpose is to educate, share resources, and support members in serving individuals and families throughout our community.

Guiding Principles

Membership in LIPLA requires a commitment to the following core values:

  • Ethical Business Practices

  • Integrity

  • Exemplary Personal Conduct

  • Exemplary Professional Conduct

  • Mentorship of Emerging Professionals

We recognize that our work directly impacts lives, and we pledge to treat all those we serve with dignity, respect, and compassion.

General Guidelines

  • Confidentiality & Privacy: LIPLA members must respect patients’ rights to privacy and comply with HIPAA regulations. Protected Health Information (PHI) must never be disclosed.

  • Non-Discrimination & Respect: Members may not engage in discrimination or harassment based on race, ethnicity, age, religion, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, veteran status, political ideology, or any other protected category.

  • Professional Standards: Members are expected to uphold the ethical standards of their profession. Those without an established code of ethics may refer to this Code of Integrity or the NASW Code of Ethics.

  • Clinical Boundaries: Mental health professionals without a state-issued license should not provide clinical advice unless supervised by a licensed professional.

Marketing & Ethical Business Practices

  1. Financial Rewards for Referrals

    • LIPLA members may not engage in patient brokering or accept financial rewards, gifts, or other compensation in exchange for referrals.

    • Members may not buy, sell, or trade patient leads.

    • Inducements such as covering airfare or other personal costs for patients are prohibited.

  2. Advertising & Representation

    • Members must comply with all federal and state laws regarding marketing.

    • False, deceptive, or misleading advertising, including predatory web practices, is strictly prohibited.

    • Transparency is required in all marketing materials, including clear disclosure of services, licenses, accreditations, and staff credentials.

    • Web directories or ads that obscure direct facility information or use misleading call center numbers are not permitted.

    • Exaggerated or unsubstantiated claims (e.g., “best,” “most effective”) are discouraged unless supported by third-party awards or verifiable data.

Service Commitment

LIPLA exists to unite professionals, support education, and encourage collaboration. Members may participate in events, educational programs, volunteer committees, and elections.

  • There are no dues or membership fees.

  • LIPLA is not aligned with any outside organizations or causes and remains neutral in matters of controversy.

  • Membership requires submitting a personal statement demonstrating professional involvement in SUD/MH and agreeing to abide by this Code of Integrity.

  • Compliance is based on personal commitment; LIPLA does not enforce or monitor adherence.

Governance & Structure

The General Service Council (GSC) manages LIPLA’s affairs, including events, membership, communications, and operations. It is composed of elected General Service Representatives (GSRs) and leadership positions such as Chair, Co-Chair, and Secretary.

LIPLA also maintains standing committees for IT, Ethics, Education, Membership, and Social Events, with the ability to form ad-hoc committees as needed.

Meetings & Events

  • Annual Holiday Party: Held in January.

  • Membership Speaker Meetings: March, June, September.

  • General Service Committee Meetings: Last Thursday of each month via Zoom.

  • Networking/Social Events: Held during non-speaker months.

  • Special Meetings: May be called by the Chair or three GSC members for urgent matters.

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