Online and Telephone Counselling Contract

This document outlines the professional agreement between you (the client) and your counsellor regarding the provision of online and telephone counselling services. Please read this information carefully to ensure you understand the terms, boundaries, and nature of remote therapeutic work.

The Nature of Remote Counselling

Online counselling (via video call) and telephone counselling provide a convenient way to access support. However, it is important to acknowledge that remote sessions differ from face-to-face therapy. The absence of physical presence may affect the nuances of non-verbal communication. By proceeding, you agree that this medium is appropriate for your current needs.

Confidentiality and Privacy

Your privacy is paramount. Your counsellor will ensure that sessions are conducted from a private, secure location. You are responsible for ensuring that you are also in a private space where you cannot be overheard or interrupted. Please be aware that while your counsellor takes every precaution to secure digital platforms, no internet-based communication can be guaranteed as 100% secure.

Technical Requirements and Contingencies

For video sessions, you are responsible for having a stable internet connection and a functional device. If a technical failure occurs, the counsellor will attempt to reconnect within five minutes. If the connection cannot be restored, the session may proceed via telephone or be rescheduled. Please ensure your phone is charged and accessible during video sessions as a backup.

Appointments and Cancellations

Sessions are generally 50 minutes in duration. If you need to cancel or reschedule, please provide at least 24 hours' notice. Cancellations made with less than 24 hours' notice, or failure to attend a scheduled session without prior notification, will be subject to the full session fee.

Emergency Procedures

Online and telephone counselling is not an emergency service. If you are in immediate danger of harming yourself or others, please contact your local emergency services, visit your nearest hospital emergency department, or call a dedicated crisis support helpline immediately. Your counsellor will discuss a safety plan with you during your initial assessment.

Professional Boundaries

The relationship between you and your counsellor is strictly professional. To maintain ethical standards, contact outside of scheduled sessions should be limited to administrative matters (such as scheduling or payment). Please do not send "friend" requests on social media platforms, as this compromises the therapeutic boundary.

Data Protection

Any personal data collected during the intake process and subsequent sessions is held in accordance with current data protection regulations. Your records are kept securely, and information will only be shared if there is a legal requirement or if there is a serious risk of harm to yourself or others, in which case the duty of care will override confidentiality.

Agreement

By booking and attending your first session, you confirm that you have read, understood, and agreed to the terms set out in this contract. If you have any questions or require clarification on any point, please discuss this with your counsellor at the start of your first session.