1) Purpose of this counselling contract

This counselling contract explains how we’ll work together so counselling is safe, clear and collaborative..

2) How we’ll work

• Approach: Integrative and relational; we tailor the work to your needs and pace, checking in regularly.
• Session length: 50 minutes (unless we agree otherwise).
• Frequency: Usually weekly; some people prefer fortnightly.
• Review: We’ll review how it’s going and adjust as needed.

3) Fees & payment

Fee per individual session: £70  |  Couples: £75

Current rates are shown on Fees. Payment is typically by bank transfer before each session (details sent in your booking email). Evening appointments may carry a small supplement; any change will be agreed in advance.

4) Cancellations, lateness & missed sessions

• Notice period: Please give at least 5 days if you need to cancel or move an appointment.
• Late cancellations/no-shows: Sessions cancelled with less than the notice period, or missed, are chargeable at the full fee.
• If you’re late: I’ll hold the time for you; we’ll finish at the scheduled end.
• If I cancel: I’ll offer an alternative time or refund any payment for that session.

If your domestic situation or health creates occasional unpredictability, we can discuss flexible options in advance.

5) Confidentiality

I take confidentiality seriously and explain it in plain English. There are rare legal and safety exceptions (e.g., serious and immediate risk of harm; court order; terrorism/money-laundering laws). Please read my Confidentiality page for the full detail.

I discuss work in clinical supervision (a standard professional requirement) with identifying details removed.

6) Notes, data protection & privacy

I keep brief, factual notes to support your care and meet professional standards. Your information is handled under UK GDPR as set out in my Privacy Notice (which includes lawful bases, retention and your rights).

7) Online counselling – additional points

• Platform: Secure video (e.g., Teams/WhatsApp). I’ll send the link shortly before the session.
• Space & privacy: Please choose a private, quiet space and use headphones if you can.
• Tech checks: Test audio/video before we start; ensure your device is charged.
• Back-up plan: If video fails, we’ll switch to phone. If contact drops, I’ll call your agreed number.
• Location: Please be in the UK for legal/insurance reasons unless we’ve agreed otherwise in writing.

8) Professional boundaries

• Contact between sessions: For scheduling only (email/text). I’ll respond in working hours.
• Social media: I don’t connect with clients on personal social media to protect your privacy.
• Gifts: I don’t accept gifts of significant value.

9) Access, equity & adjustments

I aim to make counselling accessible and equitable. Please share any access needs (mobility, sensory, language, neurodiversity) and we’ll plan reasonable adjustments. I can work with professional interpreters; I’ll brief them on confidentiality and accurate translation practice.

10) Urgent support

I’m not an emergency service. If you need urgent help between sessions, contact your GP, call NHS 111, or call Samaritans 116 123. If you are at immediate risk, call 999 or go to A&E.

11) Feedback & concerns

Feedback helps me improve and ensures therapy stays useful. If something doesn’t feel right, please raise it in session or by email. If an issue can’t be resolved, you can contact:

• NCPS – National Counselling & Psychotherapy Society: ncps.com
• BACP – British Association for Counselling & Psychotherapy: bacp.co.uk
• ICO – data rights/privacy concerns: ico.org.uk

12) Endings

You can end counselling at any time. Where possible, we’ll plan a thoughtful ending together and review what’s been helpful and what’s next.

Ready to start?

Email hazel or call/text 07814 363 855. For FAQs, see Frequently Asked Questions.