Many AHPRA-registered health professionals explore additional services such as wellness retreats, coaching, or online programs. While this can be a valuable extension of their expertise, it’s important to consider professional and regulatory obligations. Below, we answer common questions about offering non-clinical services while remaining compliant with AHPRA and Board-specific rules.
Can AHPRA-registered professionals run a separate wellness retreat or coaching business?
Yes, AHPRA-registered professionals can operate a wellness retreat, coaching program, or similar service. However, regardless of the business structure, health professionals are expected to adhere to their professional and ethical obligations under AHPRA and their respective National Board’s Code of Conduct.
What key professional obligations apply?
All AHPRA-regulated health professionals are required to:
- Maintain professional and ethical standards in all professional activities.
- Avoid misleading claims about the benefits of their services.
- Adhere to advertising regulations, including the prohibition of testimonials when advertising regulated services.
- Ensure clear boundaries between regulated health services and non-clinical offerings.
- Obtain appropriate insurance coverage for all business activities.
Does the AHPRA Advertising Code apply to non-clinical businesses?
Yes, AHPRA’s advertising guidelines apply to any regulated health services provided by a registered professional. However, the testimonial prohibition only applies when advertising a regulated service.
Clarification on Using Testimonials for Wellness Retreats:
✅ If an AHPRA-registered practitioner is advertising a retreat that includes regulated health services (e.g., therapy, psychological techniques, assessments, or interventions), then testimonials are NOT allowed under AHPRA rules.
✅ If the retreat is purely a wellness service (e.g., mindfulness, relaxation, lifestyle coaching, self-care activities) and does not provide regulated health services, then testimonials are permitted.
✅ Testimonials for non-clinical services must not imply a health benefit or clinical outcome. Instead, they can focus on:
- The experience (e.g., “The retreat was relaxing and well-organised.”)
- Customer service (e.g., “Great communication from the team.”)
- Environment (e.g., “Beautiful location and peaceful setting.”)
✅ Even if an AHPRA-registered practitioner runs a retreat, they must ensure advertising does not blur the lines between wellness and therapy.
- If a retreat promotes therapeutic benefits, even indirectly, it could be considered a regulated health service, triggering AHPRA restrictions.
- Clear disclaimers should be used to confirm no regulated health services are being provided during the retreat.
How can a health professional keep their retreat business separate?
To maintain compliance, professionals may consider:
- Using a separate business name and branding that does not suggest a regulated health service.
- Having distinct websites and marketing materials to avoid confusion.
- Including clear disclaimers and client agreements stating that the service is not a regulated health treatment.
- Ensuring insurance coverage is appropriate for all activities.
Are there additional restrictions under specific Board Codes of Conduct?
- Each health profession has its own Board Code of Conduct with specific expectations. For example, the Psychology Board of Australia’s Code of Conduct states:
- Practitioners must not misrepresent their services or practice outside their professional competence.
- Professional boundaries must be maintained, especially if existing clients attend retreats.
- Practitioners should not blur the lines between therapy and coaching/wellness services without clear disclaimers.
- Record-keeping and privacy obligations apply if collecting client information.
Similar considerations may apply to other professions, so health practitioners should check their respective Board’s Code of Conduct to ensure their retreat or wellness service does not conflict with their ethical and legal obligations.
Final Thoughts
AHPRA-registered health professionals can successfully operate retreats, coaching businesses, and wellness services, provided they maintain clear boundaries, ethical practices, and compliance with advertising and professional standards. It is always advisable to review relevant Board Codes of Conduct and seek independent advice where needed.
If you’re setting up a wellness retreat and want to ensure compliance, Legally Healthy offers professionally drafted retreat templates to help you structure agreements, waivers, and disclaimers correctly. Check out our resources to simplify your setup while maintaining professional integrity.
