Client-Therapist Contract
To enable a therapeutic relationship to be effective, there has to be a strong element of trust between therapist and client. This document sets out what you can expect from me and what your responsibilities are in the relationship.
Client-Therapist Relationship
The relationship between a therapist and client is a professional and not a social one. Regular attendance is vital if you are to get the best out of your sessions; please give them priority over other arrangements where possible.
You will be advised of the recommended length and frequency of therapy for your needs but this depends on the information you have provided for me to make a judgement. I am not able to give any guarantees of therapy outcomes and no outcomes will be implied.
I am not able to provide 24-hour crisis support but if you do require immediate mental health attention, contact the Samaritans on 116 123. Or alternatively, call 999 or go to Accident and Emergency for assistance.
I am a registered member of the National Council for Hypnotherapy (member number 9152) and the Gottman Institute and I abide by their code of ethics. I am completing professional training in Psychotherapeutic Counselling (graduating 2024) and am a student member of the National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society (member number NCS23-00348).
Confidentiality
Any personal details you disclose will be kept in strict confidentiality excepting some rare circumstances. These rare circumstances are when failure to disclose the information would place another person at serious risk of harm. It is an ethical requirement for practising therapists to receive regular supervision. During supervision the content of client sessions is discussed though identity of clients is kept confidential. The supervisor is also bound by adherence to strict confidentiality requirements.
If I happen to see you outside the therapy session it is my practice not to acknowledge you. This is to protect the confidentiality of our working relationship.
Storing Data and Social Media
I take your privacy seriously and will only use your personal information to administer the services you have requested from me. I will never pass on your details to a third party. I am registered with the Information Commissioner's Office (number ZB67036).
Part of my work involves psychoeducation through social media. As a client you are welcome to like, follow or subscribe to any of my social accounts however, I will not accept invitations to follow or subscribe to your social accounts.
Sessions and Cancellation Policy
If I am late, you will still receive the full session time either by extending your appointment time or re-arranging to a time convenient for both of us. If you are late, the session will usually finish at the scheduled time which may result in a shorter session.
There are times when you might need to cancel an appointment at short notice. Cancellation less than 24 hours in advance or non-attendance without notice will be charged at the full rate, unless in exceptional circumstances (this will be decided on an individual basis).
Couples and Individual work
If you are working with me as a couple it is important that you attend all sessions together, unless otherwise agreed.
Following a course of therapy for a couple I am not available to work with either partner as an individual therapist. I will be happy to refer partners to suitable therapists for individual work.
Misunderstandings
Client/therapist relationships are built on trust and honesty. A safe and supportive environment is essential for your growth. If you are unhappy or feel uncomfortable with any aspect of the therapy work please talk to me.