Practicalities
Everything you need to know before we begin
Don't worry about remembering any of this information - you will have a copy of your counselling agreement with more detailed information before our first session.
You will be able to go through it in your own time and at your own pace, and bring any questions or comments to our first session — or any later session if something comes to mind.
Sessions
Fees & payments
Changes & cancellations
Confidentiality & privacy
Professional standards
Communication
The quality of my work
Boundaries
Accessibility
AI & privacy
Session length
50 minutes | 90 minutes
Frequency
Weekly | fortnightly | another rhythm
Format
Face-to-face in Bishop Auckland | online | blend
Languages
English | Russian
Rearranging
48 hours' notice
Running late
Send text / email if late | Late for over 15 minutes? -> rearrange
My availability
Occasional time away for recovery | professional development
I aim to let you know at least 7 days in advance.
If I cancel unexpectedly -> we'll arrange the next suitable appointment and any payment will transfer.
Fees
£XX per 50-minute session
Payment
Bank transfer before each session
Reminders
Invoice | payment reminders prior to our sessions
Confidentiality
Not shared | unless a serious risk is identified
Notes
Brief | anonymised | secure | no identifying information
Privacy
GDPR | ICO compliant
Supervision
Anonymous | no identifying details shared
✔ Registered BACP member
✔ Fully insured
✔ Enhanced DBS
✔ ICO registered
✔ Regular supervision
✔ Ongoing professional development
Appointments
First via site | email
Further appointments arranged at the end of each session
Between sessions
Email | text in relation to appointments only
Replies
2 working days
Urgent support
-> Emergency Support page
Inclusive | Anti-oppressive | Flexible
-> Accessibility page
Ethical use of AI | secure, healthcare-compliant, confidential clinical systems for appointments & notes | admin
Never a replacement for clinical judgement
-> AI & Technology Policy
Small caseload
Intentional work with a limited number of clients
This allows being fully present | provide quality | sustainable care
Our relationship
Therapeutic | Boundaried | Friendly but not a friendship
Social media
I don't connect with clients through personal social media
Meeting in public
I'll always follow your lead if we happen to meet outside the therapy room
