Counselling Agreement

This agreement outlines the mutual responsibilities between you, the client, and myself, your counsellor. It is designed to help us establish clear expectations for our work together. If you have any questions or concerns about the content of this agreement, please feel free to ask.

Our Responsibilities as Your Counsellor:

1. Availability
   I will be available at the agreed-upon time for each session.

2. Session Timing
   Sessions will start and end on time, ensuring that we make the most of the time available.

3. Confidentiality and Data Protection
   I will securely store your personal information and session notes in line with GDPR guidelines, for a period of 5 years as required by my insurance policy. more information on this available here: GDPR

4. Environment
   I will provide a quiet, appropriate, and undisturbed space for our sessions.

5. Boundaries
   I will maintain safe, professional boundaries at all times during our work together.

6. Empowerment
   My aim is to encourage and empower you to make positive changes, offering support for your personal development.

7. Ethical Standards
   I will work within the BACP Ethical Framework (available upon request) to guide our work together.

8. Supervision
   I engage in regular supervision as part of my continuing professional development. In these sessions, I may discuss aspects of our work to ensure quality and effectiveness. Rest assured, your name and any identifiable information will never be shared, and supervision is also bound by strict confidentiality.

9. Reviewing Progress
   We will regularly review our therapeutic work and the working relationship to ensure that therapy is meeting your needs.

10. Session Cancellation
    In the unlikely event that I need to cancel a session, I will find an alternative appointment as soon as possible.

11. Limits to Confidentiality
    All information you share in sessions will be treated as confidential, except in the following cases:

    • If I believe that you or others are in imminent danger of harm.

    • If required by legal obligations.

    • If you indicate involvement in acts of terrorism, money laundering, drug trafficking, or behaviours that could harm children or vulnerable adults.

Your Responsibilities as the Client:

1. Punctuality
   Please attend sessions punctually. If you are delayed, the session will still end at the agreed time.

2. Cancellations and Rescheduling
   I ask that you give at least 48 hours' notice if you need to cancel or change an appointment. I understand that life can be unpredictable, so please inform me as soon as possible if you cannot attend. If you cancel with less than 24 hours' notice, or fail to attend without prior notice, you or your provider will be charged 50% of the session fee.

3. Multiple Cancellations
   If you miss several sessions or cancel frequently without sufficient notice, we may need to discuss whether continuing therapy is in your best interest. Continued missed sessions may result in the ending of therapy.

4. Permission to Contact GP
   In cases of serious concern for your safety or the safety of others, I may ask your permission to contact your GP or another relevant professional.

5. Ending Therapy
   You are encouraged to discuss with me when you feel ready to end therapy, and we can plan a suitable process for closure.

6. Other Therapy Relationships
   Please inform me if you are currently in, or are considering starting, another therapeutic relationship.

By signing this agreement, you confirm your understanding and acceptance of the above terms. If you have any questions or need clarification at any point, please don’t hesitate to ask. Our collaboration and open communication are essential for a positive therapeutic experience.