Working together
What Happens Next?
When a client makes contact, an information sheet providing details about the service and how it works (including location details, service fees, data protection and privacy details) is provided by email.
The first session, which can take place in person or by Zoom, is an opportunity for the client and counsellor to meet each other and to explore what it is that the client is hoping to get out of their counselling sessions.
BACP Ethical Framework
As a member of the BACP (British Associated for Counselling and Psychotherapy), I fully subscribe and adhere to the BACP Ethical Framework. This is a detailed policy setting out the professional and ethical standards required of BACP members and is available here.
Duration and payment
Each counselling session last 50 minutes. The number of counselling sessions is open-ended and the client and counsellor will discuss the appropriate duration of therapy, however it is up to the client to decide if they wish to terminate counselling at any time.
This is preferably done with sufficient notice to allow for a satisfactory ending, drawing together of threads, identification of loose ends and a sharing of reflections that the client can take forward post counselling.
Payments are to be made by the client by bank transfer in advance of each session.
The counsellor will ask the client a series of questions to form an assessment of the client’s situation and needs and there will be a candid conversation to ensure that what the client hopes for and their therapeutic needs can be met. This is also another opportunity for the client to ask any questions they have about the counsellor and service on offer.
The client will be provided with a Service Agreement that the counsellor will explain and talk through with the client outlining each party’s commitments, which both the counsellor and client will sign.
