Terms and Conditions
When you enter into therapy with me, it’s important that we both understand what is expected. I like to keep this really simple. If you’ve got any questions or concerns, please raise them with me. Therapy is a two-way process and I’m here to help.
- Payment
You’re welcome to pay by cash, bank transfer, or credit/debit card. When booking a package, a deposit of £50 is required to confirm your booking, with the remainder paid during the first session. If you’d like to pay by bank transfer, please ensure this is done by the day before your first appointment.
- Cancellations
If you can’t make the session, please let me know as soon as possible. If you cancel on the day, it will incur the full cost of the session.
- Lateness
Your appointment, whether an hour or an hour and a half, is for the times you’ve booked. If you’re running late, that’s fine—but I may have another client booked in or a personal commitment. I’ll do my best to give you your full session time, but there are no guarantees.
- Confidentiality
Everything said to me is confidential. I only discuss my clients with my Supervisor, who is bound by the same confidentiality. I don’t give personal details like your name or where you live, and supervision is a standard part of my Professional Body’s Code of Ethics.
Exceptions to confidentiality: I may need to break confidentiality if I believe you or someone else is at serious risk of harm, or if I am legally required to do so (e.g., safeguarding, terrorism, or court order). I will always try to discuss this with you first where possible.
- Record Keeping & Data Protection
When you start therapy, I collect basic information including your name, address, contact details, GP name, reasons for coming to therapy, medical history, and previous experiences. This helps me get a full picture of your needs and is stored securely.
Session notes are handwritten and kept for 7 years for insurance/legal purposes. Hypnotherapy session recordings are kept for 2 years, then deleted. Emails may be printed and securely stored with your notes or deleted if no longer needed. My computer is password protected, and client details are not stored digitally.
- Online Sessions
If you choose to work with me online, I use Zoom or similar platforms that offer encrypted, confidential spaces. Please ensure you are in a private space for our sessions.
- Public Encounters
If I see you in public, I will not acknowledge you to protect your confidentiality. This avoids awkward questions from others who may not know you’re attending therapy. If you choose to greet me, I’m happy to say hello.
- Your Role in Therapy
You’re investing your time and money in your therapy. If we’ve discussed tools or new strategies, it’s up to you whether you choose to try them. However, if the same issues are brought repeatedly without engagement, you may not experience the full benefit. If something doesn’t work for you, we will always explore alternatives.
- Emergency Support
I do not provide a crisis or emergency service. If you are in immediate danger or need urgent support, please contact your GP, NHS 111, or Samaritans (116 123).
- Endings and Reviews
We will regularly review our progress. You may end therapy at any time. If possible, we will arrange a planned ending session to reflect and bring closure.
- Consent and Agreement
By proceeding with therapy, you confirm that you understand and agree to the terms outlined above. If anything is unclear, please ask.
12. Concerns and Complaints
And finally, if you have any concerns, you are welcome to contact The National Counselling Society or The National Hypnotherapy Society for more information. Any concerns regarding data should be raised with me in the first instance at catherine@berkshiretherapist.co.uk