Terms and Conditions for Counselling Bookings

1. Introduction

By booking a counselling session through this website, you confirm that you have read, understood, and agree to these Terms and Conditions. These terms outline how sessions are arranged, what you can expect from the service, and the responsibilities of both client and counsellor.

2. About the Service

Counselling sessions are offered to adults (18+) for the purpose of emotional wellbeing, personal growth, and therapeutic support. Sessions may be delivered online, by telephone, or in person depending on availability. Counselling is not a substitute for urgent mental health or medical care.

3. Booking and Payment

• Session fees will be clearly stated at the time of booking.

• Payment is due at the time of booking unless otherwise agreed in writing.

• Accepted payment methods will be listed on the booking page.

• Any changes to fees will be communicated in advance and will not affect sessions already booked.

4. Cancellation and Rescheduling

• A minimum of 24 hours’ notice is required to cancel or reschedule a session.

• Sessions cancelled with less than 24 hours’ notice, or non‑attendance without notice, may be charged at the full session fee.

• If the counsellor needs to cancel or reschedule, as much notice as possible will be given and an alternative appointment offered.

5. Confidentiality

• All sessions are confidential in accordance with UK law and professional ethical standards.

• Exceptions apply where there is a risk of serious harm to you or others, or where required by law (e.g., safeguarding, terrorism, money laundering).

• Any limits to confidentiality will be explained at the first session.

6. Professional Standards

• Sian is a registered member of the National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society (NCPS) in line with the NCPS Code of Ethics, which requires clear contracting, respect, and informed consent. Clients have the right to understand how the service works and what to expect. The NCPS Code of Ethics can be found here: https://ncps.com/about-us/code-of-ethics.

7. Client Responsibilities

Clients agree to:

• Attend sessions on time. Sessions will be cancelled if the client is more than 15 minutes late and no refund will be given.

• Engage respectfully and safely.

• Refrain from attending sessions under the influence of alcohol or non‑prescribed drugs.

• Inform the counsellor of any accessibility needs or adjustments required.
  Disruptive, abusive, or discriminatory behaviour may result in services being withdrawn.

8. Technology and Online Sessions

For online or telephone sessions:

• Clients are responsible for ensuring a private, quiet, and stable environment.

• Technical issues will be managed as best as possible; if connection problems prevent a full session, the counsellor will discuss rescheduling options.

• No sessions may be recorded without explicit written consent from both parties.

9. Data Protection and Privacy

• Personal data is handled in accordance with UK GDPR and the practice’s Privacy Policy.

• Information submitted through the website (e.g., enquiry or booking forms) is used solely to arrange and deliver counselling services.

10. Intellectual Property

• Any written materials, resources, or tools provided during counselling remain the intellectual property of the counsellor and may not be reproduced or shared without permission.

11. Suitability and Referral

• If it becomes clear that counselling is not the most appropriate form of support, the counsellor may discuss alternative services or signpost to other professionals. This is in line with ethical obligations to work within competence and in the client’s best interests.

12. Emergencies and Crisis Support

• This service does not provide emergency or crisis support. If you are in immediate danger or need urgent help, please contact emergency services or your local crisis team.

13. Changes to Terms

These Terms and Conditions may be updated periodically. The version published on the website at the time of booking will apply to your session.

14. Governing Law

These Terms and Conditions are governed by the laws of England and Wales. Any disputes will be subject to the jurisdiction of the courts of England and Wales.