We are both making a commitment of time and energy to each other in deciding to work together, so it is important for you to know what agreements we are making together and what to expect.
I am a member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) and work from a Person-Centred counselling perspective with Cognitive-Behavioural skills. I abide by the Ethical Framework for Good Practice in Counselling and Psychotherapy BACP Code of Ethics and Practice. The contents of the therapy are confidential within the law and the BACP Ethical Framework of Good Practice.
Exceptions are:
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Where there is a danger of serious harm to you, the client, or to others
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Any disclosure of acts of terrorism
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Any activity related to money-laundering
I will need to discuss our work with my supervisor, my supervisor will not know your name, nor will I use any other identifying details about you. On very rare occasions we may need to communicate with other professionals, this will only proceed after first seeking your permission and informing you of what is to be discussed. I make brief notes after a session and these are stored in accordance with the Information Commissioner’s Office guidance on notification under the Data Protection Act 1998.
Sessions last for up to one hour, the first session is used to establish whether the psychological connection you, the client, feels with me, the counsellor, is comfortable, whether it seems right for us to work together and to answer any questions that may arise. I charge £30 per session. That time belongs to you whether you decide to come or not. If you arrive 5 minutes from the end of our time together I will still be there, but it is important to end our session on time.
We will enter a collaborative, therapeutic journey together and you, the client will ultimately decide on the direction your life will take. We will review our work together periodically throughout the course of therapy.
In case I am unavailable for your session because of illness, training, or meetings, I will give you as much notice as possible and offer you an alternative time. I require at least 48 hours notice if you need to cancel a session. You will be charged for any missed sessions. You can contact me via mobile telephone, number 07854 951365 or email info@cathhenshallcounsellor.co.uk.
Undertaking counselling can be very hard work, whilst it is hoped that it is beneficial to you, the client, it may not suit everybody. There may be times when you feel very distressed and feel that counselling is not helping you. It is wise to come and discuss these difficulties and not to suddenly end the counselling. This will give you the opportunity to understand and perhaps resolve your distress. Usually you will know when you are ready to cease counselling and together we will find the way that feels comfortable for you to do this.
Please check that you understand this document, and what we have agreed together. Unless you have any queries, these are our boundaries and ground rules that will enable us to work together. If you wish to discuss or negotiate any changes, I will be happy to do so before you sign.
We have contracted to work together and by accepting an appointment, you are aware of the contents of this contract. This agreement is fully understood, agreed to and is signed as it stands, before any conselling services are commenced.