Privacy & Therapeutic Agreement
Therapy Agreement:
This agreement outlines the way I work and includes, information I hold about you, Fees, timekeeping, cancellation policy and other additional information.
It is very important that you read and understand this agreement and that you only sign if you are happy with the terms stated therein. Should you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact me before signing.
The modality/therapy I use is Humanistic Person Centred, this means that it is a client led talking therapy putting you at the centre of our work together. The aim is to develop a relationship built on trust enabling you to feel safe to fully explore your ways of thinking and feeling. This is a non-judgmental environment where you will be shown acceptance, empathy and honesty at all times, no advice or tasks will be given.
Professional Accreditation:
I am a registered member of British Association of Counsellors & Psychotherapists (BACP) and rigidly follow the BACP Ethical Framework and Codes of Practice see www.bacp.co.uk
I hold an enhanced DBS license and full comprehensive public liability insurance.
Clinical Supervision:
As part of my ongoing commitment to providing the best outcomes for clients and my own professional development I attend regular sessions with a qualified and experienced supervisor who is also bound by our contracted confidentiality. These sessions are for my ongoing development where I present case work, however, I do not disclose names or identifying details in order to safeguard client confidentiality and protect anonymity.
Confidentiality:
Everything that is discussed or said within our sessions is confidential, however, I do reserve the right to breach confidentiality and pass information to a third party in exceptional circumstances, these include:
Harm to Self or Others, child abuse, drug trafficking, money laundering,
Acts of terrorism or crimes of a violent nature.
Or where a court order has been issued.
Before considering breaching confidentiality I will discuss with my clinical supervisor and wherever possible will discuss with you before passing information to other organizations.
Note Keeping & Records:
As a help to myself I will keep brief confidential notes of our sessions. These will be kept in a lockable safe place together with your anonymous initial assessment form for my eyes only and will not include any personal data. Your personal details, name address, phone and email address will be stored in a separate lockable filing cabinet. All in line with BACP policy and GDPR requirements.
You have the right to access your notes and personal information held at any time (28 days’ notice to be given). Your records are kept for 7 years after counselling after which they are securely destroyed.
Timekeeping:
You must be punctual for your sessions as there can be no running over from your allotted time. If you are late your session will still end at the time stated and your fee remains the same. If you cannot for any reason attend your session you must give at least 48 hours’ notice (as soon as possible in exceptional circumstances). If you do not notify me 48 hours before and do not attend your session you will still be liable for the full agreed session fee.
I will follow the same procedure if I need to cancel a session with you.
Mutual Boundaries:
Both parties to show respect at all times within the sessions, good timekeeping and personal space.
Should we meet outside of the counselling room I would follow your lead allowing you to make the decision whether or not to acknowledge me.
I don’t friend or follow clients on social media.
It is not acceptable to attend your session whilst under the influence of drink or drugs, or to use threatening behavior in any way during the sessions and in these instances I reserve the right to terminate the session if I feel it is appropriate to do so.
I do not usually work with a client who is seeing another therapist. If you did see someone else this is something we would need to discuss.
Sessions & Terminations:
To ensure continuity it is preferable that sessions take place at regular intervals and at the same time, this can be weekly, fortnightly or monthly depending on your requirements. Sessions will last 1 Hour but should you wish to you can leave at any time.
As well as face to face sessions I also offer On-line via WhatsApp and telephone sessions (agreement terms apply to all)
You have the right to terminate your sessions with me if you feel it is not meeting your needs and expectations, however I would encourage you to consider the implications of ending prematurely or abruptly without offering yourself the time and opportunity to say a proper goodbye.
Fees:
£55 per session (Individuals over 18). Concessions: £50 (ID required)
I accept payment via Bank Transfer in advance (details on request) or in session in cash.
I ask that your account is paid before any future sessions are confirmed.
I offer discounts for multiple sessions booked and paid for (on request).
Declaration:
I have read, fully understand and agree to the terms outlined in this therapeutic agreement.
Client Signature: Print Name: Date:
Therapist Signature: Print Name: Date: