Counselling Agreement

This agreement serves as a foundation for our work together, highlighting important factors that contribute to a safe, confidential, and effective counselling relationship. It aims to create a shared understanding of how we will work together and give you an idea of what to expect from our sessions. You can download a copy of this counselling agreement here.

Ethical Framework

I am a registered member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). This means I conduct my counselling practice within their ethical framework and am subject to their complaint procedure. I am therefore committed to working with you in a way that best supports your needs and maintains the highest standards of professionalism, respect, and integrity. A copy of the ethical framework can be found at: https://www.bacp.co.uk/events-and-resources/ethics-and-standards/ethical-framework-for-the-counselling-professions/

Modality

I follow an integrative approach, which means I can draw upon a range of counselling theories and techniques to best meet your needs. This is based on the belief that no single approach will work for all clients and that the most effective counselling is tailored to each person’s individual needs. While my counselling practice is grounded in the person-centred approach, it is often complemented with cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and other modalities when needed. Together, we will find the best approach for you. More information on therapeutic approaches can be found at: https://www.bacp.co.uk/about-therapy/types-of-therapy

Signposting

IIf I am unable to meet your needs, we will discuss the possibility of referring you to a more appropriate source of support. Any referral will be your decision, and I will make every effort to support you in making this decision.

Confidentiality

For the most part, the content of these sessions will remain confidential between us both. However, there are some ethical and legal exceptions, these are when I believe you or another person is at risk of serious harm or when a serious crime has been committed, such as drugs trafficking, money laundering, or terrorism. However, if any of these situations were to arise, where possible, I would discuss them with you beforehand to find the best way forward.

Supervision

I attend regular supervision with an experienced counsellor, where I may share parts of our sessions to monitor my practice. My supervisor is bound by the same standards of confidentiality as I am. This is standard practice and helps me to provide the best possible service to you.

Note Keeping

I may make brief notes relating to our sessions, which you are welcome to see at any time. These are intended to support my work with you and will not be shared unless legally required (e.g. by a court order). These notes are anonymised and stored securely in a locked filing cabinet for seven years after the end of our work together.

Booking Sessions

Sessions are booked online at your convenience. You can schedule regular sessions (weekly, fortnightly, or monthly) or book them as needed. You may also book multiple sessions at a reduced rate using packages. However, once purchased, packages cannot be refunded.

Session Timings

The number of sessions we have is flexible and tailored to your individual needs. We will have fifty minutes each session. Please attend your sessions punctually as they cannot be extended and will be charged in full.

Payment

Each session will cost £40 with fees reviewed annually. Any changes to the rate will be effective from the 1st of January. Payments are made online and must be completed in advance of our session.

Cancellations

For regular sessions, I will notify you of any planned absences and ask that you do the same. If I am forced to cancel a session, I will give you at least 24 hours notice, and you will not be charged. Equally, you will not be charged for cancellations made with at least 24 hours notice. However, any missed sessions or cancellations with less than 24 hours notice will be charged in full, as this time cannot be offered to others.

Between Session Contact

Contact between sessions is limited to appointment scheduling, cancellations or other administrative matters. For urgent support, please contact NHS 111, your GP, emergency services or Samaritans at 116 123. To maintain confidentiality, I do not accept any social media friend requests from clients and would not make it known that I recognise you if we were to see each other in public.