Standard 1: Non-Clinical Scope and Role Clarity

The companion communicates that companionship is non-clinical and not therapy. The companion avoids diagnostic language and does not claim to treat, heal, or resolve mental health conditions. If a client requests clinical services, the companion refers to appropriate licensed care.

Prohibited: Implying clinical authority or presenting companionship as mental health treatment. Providing diagnosis, prescribing treatment, or conducting therapy-like interventions

Standard 2: Consent, Agency, and Session Containment

Sessions are conducted with consent-based pacing and clear session boundaries (start/end). The companion respects the client’s right to decline topics and to end sessions. The companion avoids coercion, pressure, or emotional manipulation.

Standard 3: Boundaries and Dependency Risk Mitigation

The companion maintains clear boundaries around the role, communication channels, and availability. The companion avoids encouraging exclusivity, reliance, or escalation beyond the service scope. The companion supports healthy independence and appropriate referrals when needed.

Standard 4: Professional Conduct and Respect

The companion maintains respectful language and behavior. The companion does not harass, demean, discriminate, or retaliate. The companion maintains clean endings and does not create ambiguous relational promises.

Standard 5 — Privacy, Confidentiality, and Secure Practice

The companion uses secure tools and protects client identity and session content.The companion does not record sessions without explicit consent and documented authorization. The companion avoids sharing identifying details or session content outside the program.

Standard 6 — Truthfulness and No Misrepresentation

The companion represents their identity, background, and role truthfully. The companion does not mislead clients about credentials, qualifications, or services. The companion discloses any conflicts of interest that could affect trust.

Standard 7 — Safety Awareness and Escalation

The companion recognizes when a situation exceeds companionship and escalates per policy. The companion does not attempt crisis intervention beyond scope. The companion prioritizes safety, including ending sessions when needed.

Standard 8 — Reliability, Punctuality, and Service Integrity

The companion is punctual and reliable for confirmed sessions. The companion avoids late cancellations and communicates promptly if issues arise. The companion maintains preparedness and a professional environment for virtual sessions.

Standard 9 — Prohibited Content and Prohibited Services

The companion does not provide sexual services, explicit sexual content, or erotic roleplay. The companion does not facilitate illegal activity, harassment, or exploitation. The companion does not engage in financial manipulation or solicitations.

Standard 10 — Accountability, Feedback, and Cooperation

The companion cooperates with standards-based reviews, complaints, and re-verification. The companion corrects standards issues promptly when identified. Repeated or severe violations may result in suspension or revocation.

Sponsoring Organization Requirement (Condition of Practice):
To practice under the VEVC credential, the credential holder must have a registered sponsoring organization on file with IVEC. Credential holders must keep sponsoring organization information current. Practicing without an approved sponsoring organization on file may result in suspension pending compliance.

Credential verification: Credential verification: Email verify@vvcinstitute.com with the VEVC credential holder’s name and VVC credential ID. Response within 2 business days. Verification results may include whether a sponsoring organization is on file.