Sample Contract

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This is to give you an idea of the Counselling agreement. We call it a Contract because it includes details of payment and GDPR (information) responsibilites.

 

 

This agreement is between ____________________________________________ the Client and Josephine Kerr the Counsellor who, being a registered member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) adheres to the BACP Ethical Guidelines.

 

Overview

The BACP definition of counselling/ psychotherapy states that “Counselling and psychotherapy are umbrella terms that cover a range of talking therapies. They are delivered by trained practitioners who work with people over a short or long term to help them bring about effective change and/or enhance their wellbeing” (BACP Information Sheet C3 2017)

 

Counselling is not about telling you what to do and any decisions you make will be of your own choice and you agree that the Counsellor cannot be held responsible for your decisions and actions.

 

Confidentiality

Counselling is confidential and will not be shared with anyone without the Client’s permission or in the exceptional circumstances listed below. There are certain circumstances when the Counsellor will have to share information the Client has disclosed. Whenever possible the Counsellor will endeavour to discuss this with the Client first.

These occasions include:

• If the Counsellor believes there is a risk of harm to you, the Client or anyone else

• If you, the Client disclose information about acts of terrorism or money laundering

• If the Counsellor is ordered to disclose information by a court of law.

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In this instance the Counsellor will obtain advice from the legal team at Howden’s Insurance and keep you as informed as possible.

 

Length and Frequency of Counselling

Counselling sessions will last for up to 50 minutes and it is recommended that shorter courses continue for at least six to ten sessions. Therapy will be reviewed at every sixth session and either the Client or Counsellor can suggest a review at any point.

 

Fees, Payment and Cancellations

All monies are due before the session and are payable in advance by bank transfer.

Standard Fees are £45 per session. Concessionary Fees are £40 per session.

Late or non-payment of fees may result in the suspension or possibly the ending of therapy.

 

If you are late for your session you will be able to continue up to the end of the pre-arranged 50 minute slot.

If either Client or Counsellor cannot attend a session, they will let the other know as soon as possible and an alternative date/ time will be arranged.

In the case of Client non-attendance the Counsellor will contact the Client.

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If the Client cancels with less than 24 hours notice or does not attend, the hourly rate is payable.

 

Getting the most out of counselling

While talking about personal issues has the potential to relieve distress, increase self-awareness and improve quality of life, it can be difficult at times, can be uncomfortable, and things may feel worse before they feel better. Ultimately, sticking with counselling, maintaining regular sessions and engaging in the work, can be hugely rewarding and helpful.

 

Data Protection and Storing of information

Contact details, personal information and brief notes are kept in a locked filing cabinet and in line with GDPR. You may request to see any information held about you.

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By completing and returning this contract to me, I understand that you have read and accept the

above information, and that you understand that this contract will be in place for the duration of the

time we meet for counselling. Thank you, and I look forward to working with you.

 

I have read and understood the above information and I agree to work with this contract.

 

 

Signed: ………………………………………… Date: ……………………………

                                (Client)

 

Print Name: ………………………………………………..

 

 

 

Signed: ………………………………………… Date: …………………………….

                              (Counsellor)

 

Print Name: ….Josephine Kerr…………………………….