Kathy Ellis Counselling – Our Therapeutic Agreement

These notes are here to support our work together and to help you feel informed, safe, and prepared.

My Professional Practice

I am a member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) and follow its Code of Ethical Practice for Counselling Professions.

Confidentiality

Everything you share with me is treated with care and confidentiality. There are a few situations where I may need to break confidentiality to keep you or others safe. These include:

• Serious risk of harm to yourself or someone else
• Safeguarding concerns
• Terrorist activity
• Legal obligations
• Illegal activity or risks to others

If any of these arise, I may need to share relevant information with appropriate services and/or my supervisor. I will always aim to talk with you about this wherever possible.

To support confidentiality, please turn your mobile phone off during sessions. Sessions cannot be recorded.

Data Protection

I am registered with the Information Commissioner’s Office and hold a Privacy Statement that explains how your information is stored and protected.

Cancellations

Life happens, and sometimes appointments need to change. The full session fee applies if you cancel within 24 hours, do not attend, or arrive more than 20 minutes late.

If cancellations become frequent (two in a row), we will gently explore together whether counselling feels right for you at this time.

Third‑Party Payments

If someone else pays for your sessions, any changes or disputes around payment will need to be resolved between you and the payer.

Evidence and Documentation

I cannot provide notes, testify, or confirm attendance for court matters, medical reports, PIP, insurance claims, or workplace processes – even if you ask me to.

Supervision

I attend regular supervision to keep my practice safe, ethical, and reflective. This means I may discuss aspects of our work, but your identity remains protected.

Risks and Safety

Your wellbeing is central to our work. There are times when counselling alone may not be enough to keep you safe.

I cannot offer a session if you arrive under the influence of drugs or alcohol; the session will not go ahead, and the cancellation fee will apply.

If you are using drugs or alcohol, have a severe eating disorder, a life‑threatening medical condition, or are planning to end your life, I will need other professional services involved before we continue. Counselling works best alongside the right support network.

The Therapeutic Space

My practice is non‑smoking and pet‑free, though assistance dogs are warmly welcomed.

Parking is available on the street or in nearby car parks. As there is no waiting room, please arrive at your appointment time.

The entrance has a low step and threshold. Please use your own toilet before attending.

If you feel unwell, please cancel as soon as you can.

Our Agreement

Please take your time to read through this information. If anything feels unclear or you’d like to talk it through, you’re welcome to ask. These boundaries are here to help us work together safely, respectfully, and in a way that supports your therapeutic process.