Contract

Client Contract.

Affordable Counselling – Client / Therapist Contract

As the person availing of therapy hereafter called the "Client", who wish to avail of the talk support services of Affordable Counselling, hereafter referred to as the "Therapist". By entering into this agreement, both parties agree to the following terms:

1. Therapist Assignment
   The Client acknowledges that the Therapist assigned may be a fully qualified therapist, or a therapist in training under professional supervision, completing required clinical hours. Therapists are allocated according to the Client's circumstances, needs, and presentation. All therapists, whether qualified or in training, adhere to professional codes of ethics, confidentiality, and supervision requirements. All therapy is undertaken within the limits of the therapist's qualifications and/or training.

2. Confidentiality
   All matters discussed in sessions are strictly confidential, except where there is a risk of serious harm to self or others, where there are child protection concerns, or where the Client discloses an intention to harm another person. In such cases, the Therapist will clarify the situation and, where possible, seek the Client's consent before acting. Case material may be discussed anonymously in professional supervision, with identifying details protected at all times.

3. Appointments and Cancellations
   Sessions are one hour in duration unless otherwise agreed. The Client agrees to the cancellation terms as set out on the Affordable Counselling website (affordablecounselling.ie) and accepts responsibility for adhering to these terms.

4. Note-Taking and Records
   Notes may be kept solely for therapeutic purposes. Notes are brief, not chronological, and are not intended for legal or forensic use. Notes cannot be accessed without the Therapist's agreement and a valid court order.

5. Recording of Sessions
   Sessions may not be recorded in any form, including audio, video or digital, without the prior written consent of both Therapist and Client. No third party may observe or listen to sessions without explicit agreement. The Client agrees to immediately end the session should confidentiality be compromised in this way.

6. Online and Remote Sessions
   All terms of this contract apply equally to online and in-person sessions. Online sessions must take place in a private, secure setting with no interruptions.

7. Fees
   Fees for Affordable Counselling are reduced and set as stated on the website affordablecounselling.ie. Fee amounts will be agreed in advance. Any changes will be notified to the Client in advance.

8. Safeguarding the Therapist
   Respectful behaviour is expected at all times. The Therapist may end a session or terminate this contract if behaviour compromises safety or professional boundaries.

9. Medical and Mental Health Issues
   The Client is responsible for seeking medical or psychiatric treatment if needed. Therapy is supportive in nature and not a substitute for medical care.

10. Jurisdiction
    This agreement is governed by the laws of Ireland. Any disputes will be processed within this jurisdiction.

11. Services Provided
    Affordable Counselling provides supportive talk and listening services. Therapy is non-directive: no medical, diagnostic, or legal advice is provided. The philosophy of the service is that all people are complete and capable of growth, supported with compassion and empathy.

Final Agreement
The Client confirms agreement with this contract by selecting the agreement checkbox within the 'client details form'. The Client agrees to do so only after reading this contract in full, understanding it and agreeing with it in its entirety. The Client may take legal advice before agreeing and will not rely on the lack of advice after signing.

Having read and agreed to the contract you can now return and fill out your booking form.