Number and Frequency of Sessions
The number of sessions required varies depending on your specific needs and individual factors. Similarly, the frequency of sessions can be tailored to your preferences.
Some clients choose to engage in weekly sessions, while others prefer fortnightly or monthly intervals. Together, we will discuss and determine a suitable plan that aligns with your goals and circumstances.
What to Expect in Your First Session
During your first session, we will focus on discussing the counselling process and establishing a foundation for our work together. It is an opportunity for us to meet, get to know each other, and address any questions or concerns you may have regarding counselling and my services. You will have the chance to share what brings you to therapy and what you hope to achieve.
The professional experience and the relationship between the counsellor and client are essential for a successful therapeutic journey. Therefore, I will also assess if I am the right person to work with you.
If you feel that I may not be the best fit for your needs, that’s perfectly alright. It is important that you feel comfortable in choosing the counsellor you want to work with. Likewise, if I determine that I am not the most suitable counsellor for your specific situation, I will openly discuss other options and assist you in finding the right support.
Towards the end of the first session, we will discuss the next steps and determine whether booking additional sessions is necessary.
Throughout our counselling process, I will ensure that you are well-informed about the approach I am taking and will encourage open dialogue to ensure that your needs are being met.
Your comfort, trust, and overall wellbeing are my priorities as we embark on this therapeutic journey together.
Confidentiality
Confidentiality is of utmost importance in our counselling relationship. What you share with me will remain strictly confidential, with a few exceptions:
- As part of my professional obligations, I engage in regular supervision with a qualified and registered professional. During these sessions, I may discuss aspects of our work together, but your identity will always be protected.
- There are rare circumstances where I may be legally obligated to breach confidentiality. This includes situations where there is a court order or if I assess that you are at immediate risk of harm to yourself or others. In such cases, I will work with you to ensure you receive the necessary support and assistance.
Cancellation Policy
Once we agree upon a regular meeting time, I make a commitment to reserve that time slot for your session. I understand that unexpected circumstances can arise, preventing you from attending an appointment. In such cases, I will reschedule your session to the next available date. Please note that cancellations or no-shows with less than 24 hours’ notice may incur a charge. However, I will not charge you if you are unwell or awaiting a COVID test.
Complaints Policy
As a registered professional, I strictly adhere to the New Zealand Association of Counsellors (NZAC) Code of Ethics. Your feedback is important to me, and if you are dissatisfied with my service, you have the right to make a complaint. I am committed to addressing complaints in a fair, reasonable, and timely manner. For information on how to formally lodge a complaint with NZAC, please visit this page.
You are also protected by The Code of Health and Disability Services Consumers’ Rights, governed by the Health and Disability Commissioner (hdc.org.nz), when receiving counselling. If needed, you can contact an advocate for support through their advocacy service at 0800 555 050.