Confidentiality

Whatever you bring to counselling is private, and I treat all information as highly confidential.

I keep very brief, factual written notes about the sessions, which are kept securely and not ever removed from the premises. I am the only person who legally has access to these notes, unless a court of law requires me to produce them. Session notes are destroyed on completion of your work with me.

Exceptions to confidentiality:

Supervision

As a professional counsellor and member of the BACP, I regularly see an experienced supervisor (also a BACP member). This is a requirement of the BACP for all counsellors and psychotherapists. A supervisor helps a counsellor think about her work with clients, and this regular input helps to maintain the highest possible standards of professional practice. Confidentiality continues to be a priority and is protected during these meetings.

Risk of Harm

If I believe that your safety is at risk, or another person’s safety,

I might feel the need to inform another professional about it. I would aim to do this with your full consent. However if this is not possible, I will still take the action I believe to be necessary. I will do all I can to keep you informed, and provide, or help you access, support during this time.

Legal Requirements

Occasionally counsellors might be required by law to produce records, and are legally required to report information about terrorism and drug trafficking.

Employers

If your counselling is being financed by your employer, insurance company or other organisation, information about the dates and duration of your counselling will inevitably be passed on as part of the contract, but the content of your sessions will remain confidential under the conditions outlined in this statement.

Your request

Please be aware that I do not write letters or reports to third parties (i.e. employers, college tutors, solicitors), even if it is at your request. The only exception to this is if I am required to do so by law, or if in my opinion the above paragraph regarding ‘Risk of Harm’ applies.