Counselling Agreement & Working Together
Starting counselling is an important personal decision. At Aldridge Counselling Services, I believe that having a clear understanding of how we will work together helps create a safe, respectful and trusting therapeutic relationship.
Before counselling begins, we will discuss the practical arrangements, professional boundaries and expectations of our work together. You will also receive a counselling agreement to review.
A Collaborative Approach
My approach to counselling is integrative and grounded in humanistic values. I believe that counselling works best when you feel listened to, respected and actively involved in the therapeutic process.
We will explore what has brought you to counselling, what you hope to gain and how we can work towards your individual goals.
You remain in control of your decisions throughout counselling.
Sessions and Reviews
Individual counselling sessions usually last 50 minutes. Couples counselling arrangements are agreed before booking.
We may initially plan approximately six sessions, reviewing our work regularly to ensure counselling continues to meet your needs.
There is no obligation to commit to a fixed number of sessions.
Fees and Cancellations
Individual counselling costs £70 per session, and couples counselling costs £80 per session. Any alternative fee or concession will be agreed in advance.
I ask for at least 48 hours’ notice if you need to cancel or rearrange an appointment.
Appointments cancelled with less than 48 hours’ notice may be charged at the agreed session fee, although exceptional circumstances will be considered fairly.
If I need to cancel an appointment, you will not be charged.
Ending Counselling
You are free to end counselling whenever you feel it is appropriate.
There is no compulsory notice period and no additional charge simply for deciding to end therapy.
Where possible, I encourage a final session to reflect on your experience, progress and future needs. However, this is entirely your choice.
Confidentiality and Professional Standards
Confidentiality is fundamental to the counselling relationship.
What you share will be treated with care and respect, subject to certain professional and legal exceptions, including safeguarding concerns, serious risks of harm and legal requirements.
I undertake regular professional supervision and work in accordance with the BACP Ethical Framework.
Information about how your personal data is managed is available in my Privacy Notice.
Online and Telephone Counselling
Online and telephone counselling offer flexibility while maintaining the same professional and ethical standards as face-to-face sessions.
We will discuss privacy, suitable arrangements and what happens if technology interrupts a session.
Support Between Sessions
Contact outside appointments is primarily for practical arrangements, such as booking or rearranging sessions.
Aldridge Counselling Services does not provide a 24-hour crisis response service.
If you require urgent mental health support, please visit the Urgent & Crisis Support page for appropriate NHS and specialist support contacts.
Taking the Next Step
If you are considering counselling, I offer a free 15-minute introductory conversation.
This provides an opportunity to ask questions, discuss what you are looking for and decide whether working together feels appropriate.
Contact Aldridge Counselling Services
Telephone: 07506 858195
Email: info@aldridgecounsellingservices.co.uk
21 The Hive, Bull Plain, Hertford, Hertfordshire, SG14 1DX