Terms & Conditions

Welcome to DMW Relational Counselling

These Terms and Conditions outline the framework for our therapeutic relationship and establish clear expectations for both you as our client and us as your counselling service providers. By engaging our services, you agree to these terms.

Services Provided

Counselling Services

DMW Relational Counselling provides the following therapeutic services:

• Individual counselling and psychotherapy
• Couples and relationship counselling
• Family therapy sessions
• Specialist men's counselling
• Online and telephone counselling sessions
• Young people and teen support

Session Format

• Sessions are typically 50 minutes in duration
• Available in-person at our practice location
• Online sessions via secure, confidential platforms
• Telephone counselling when appropriate

Appointments and Scheduling

Booking Appointments

• Appointments can be booked through our website, email, or telephone
• We will confirm all appointments in writing (email or text)
• Regular weekly or fortnightly appointments are recommended for continuity
• We aim to offer flexible scheduling to accommodate your needs

Cancellation Policy

Late Arrivals

If you arrive late for your session:

• We will accommodate you for the remaining session time
• Sessions will end at the scheduled time to respect subsequent appointments
• Full session fees apply regardless of time used

Fees and Payment

Session Fees

Current session fees are:

• Individual sessions: £65 per 50-minute session
• Couples sessions: £75 per 50-minute session
• Online sessions: Same rates as in-person sessions
• Assessment sessions: Same rate as regular sessions

Payment Methods

• Payment is due at the time of service
• We accept cash, bank transfer, or card payments
• Payment plans may be available by prior arrangement
• Receipts will be provided for all payments

Fee Changes

Session fees are reviewed annually. Any changes will be communicated with at least 4 weeks' notice.

Professional Standards and Ethics

Confidentiality

Your privacy is paramount to our practice:

• All session content is strictly confidential
• Information is stored securely and accessed only by authorised personnel
• We follow GDPR and professional ethical guidelines
• No information will be shared without your written consent

Limits to Confidentiality

Confidentiality may be broken only in the following circumstances:

• Risk of serious harm to yourself or others
• Child protection concerns
• Court orders or legal requirements
• Professional supervision (anonymised information only)

Professional Boundaries

• Therapeutic relationships are professional, not personal or social
• Contact outside sessions should be appointment-related only
• Gift-giving should be limited and discussed within sessions
• Social media connections are not appropriate during therapy

Your Responsibilities as a Client

Commitment to the Process

• Arrive on time for scheduled appointments
• Provide accurate and honest information
• Give appropriate notice for cancellations
• Make payment when services are provided

Communication

• Keep us informed of any changes in circumstances that may affect therapy
• Notify us of any medications or treatments you're receiving
• Discuss any concerns about the therapeutic process
• Inform us of any safety concerns or crisis situations

Between Sessions

• Emergency contact is available through our emergency number
• Non-urgent matters should be discussed in sessions
• Brief administrative queries can be handled via email

Data Protection and Record Keeping

Clinical Records

We maintain clinical records to ensure continuity and quality of care:

• Session notes and treatment plans are kept securely
• Records are retained in accordance with professional guidelines
• Adult records: 7 years after last contact
• Young person records: Until age 25 or 7 years, whichever is later

Your Data Rights

Under GDPR, you have rights regarding your personal data. Please refer to our Privacy Policy for detailed information about data protection rights and procedures.

Complaints and Resolution

Feedback and Concerns

We welcome feedback and take all concerns seriously:

• Please discuss any concerns directly with your counsellor first
• If unresolved, contact our practice manager
• We aim to resolve complaints within 10 working days
• All complaints are handled confidentially and professionally

External Resolution

If you remain unsatisfied with our response, you may contact:

• British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP)
• Professional Standards Authority
• Citizens Advice Bureau

Limitation of Liability

While we are committed to providing professional counselling services:

Service Limitations

• Counselling outcomes cannot be guaranteed
• Progress depends on various factors including client engagement
• We are not liable for outcomes beyond our direct control
• Our liability is limited to the cost of services provided

Force Majeure

We cannot be held liable for service disruptions caused by circumstances beyond our control, including:

• Natural disasters or extreme weather
• Government restrictions or public health emergencies
• Technology failures affecting online sessions
• Serious illness or emergency affecting practitioners

Changes to Terms and Termination

Modifications to Terms

• We may update these terms to reflect changes in practice or law
• Significant changes will be communicated with 30 days' notice
• Continued use of services constitutes acceptance of updated terms

Termination of Services

Either party may terminate the therapeutic relationship:

• Client: You may end therapy at any time
• Counsellor: May end therapy with appropriate notice and referral
• Mutual: When therapeutic goals are achieved
• Breach: For serious breach of these terms