Terms of Counselling Services

Why Consult a Psychologist?

Psychologists are experts in assessing and treating a range of mental health concerns or personal challenges. As such, I am able to provide confidential counselling services for individuals experiencing:

Stress, anxiety, depression
Personal tragedy or trauma
Marriage or relationship conflict
Work-related difficulties

Nature and extend of counselling

The nature and extent of counselling will generally depend upon the type of issues presented at counselling. Together, we can develop a plan that helps meet your needs and achieve your goals.

My counselling process

I utilize professional counselling techniques that have strong research support and effectiveness. Examples of therapies include Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Solution Focus Therapy, and Mindfulness. From time to time, we will assess the effectiveness of counselling via your feedback or personal questionnaires.

How long do counselling sessions last?

Counselling sessions generally run for 50 minutes. I will contact you at our prearranged time to maximise our time together. How often we meet will depend upon your specific needs and goals.

Do you keep records of information gathered during counselling sessions, and where do you store this information?

As a Psychologist, I am required ethically to keep records of information gathered during counselling sessions. You can be assured your information is stored securely at all times.

Confidentiality

Counselling sessions are strictly confidential, except in the following circumstances:

You provide me informed consent to do so,

A person with legal authority can act on your behalf,

There is a legal obligation to do so,

There is an immediate and specified risk to harm to yourself or others,

Professional supervision or training of the psychologist, whereby your identity is concealed.

Cancellation/Rescheduling Policy

Please be aware that there is a strict 24-hour minimum cancellation policy if you are unable to attend. Please provide notification within this time frame to avoid forfeiting the session cost.

My commitment to you

As my client you have a right to expect that:

you will be treated with respect
you will receive a clear explanation of the service you will receive
You will be clear about the goals that you and I are working towards
you will receive competent and professional service
you will receive a clear statement of fees
an estimate of the number of sessions required to achieve your goals
you will receive a service free from sexual harassment
you will be shown respect for your cultural background and language tradition
you can withhold information
you can question the relevance and reasons behind the procedures I recommend