Professional Service
Following the initial assessment, we will evaluate the amount of sessions needed, which is open to amendments. An insurance company will usually allocate a set number of sessions that are funded by them. Sessions are usually once a week for the first 2-3 weeks. Then being gradually spaced out to twice monthly, once monthly, etc, perhaps with a final follow-up session. Everything is kept highly confidential and in accordance with the Data Protection Act. The only case scenario, where I would have to seek others involvement would be in situations where yours other others’ wellbeing would be at risk as a consequence of your behaviour.
Confidentiality
Sessions are highly confidential and information would only be shared with third parties with your permission. You may want your GP or other person, who referred you, to be kept informed about their treatment. If an insurance company is funding your treatment, they may also require update regarding your treatment. However, all this will be discussed with you and your wishes respected. The only exception to sharing details about your treatment would be if I believe that you may be a risk either to yourself or another person, where, as a psychologist, I would have the duty of care to make the necessary disclosures. You would however, where possible, be informed of this.
Business Policy
I am required to keep appropriate treatment records of my services. These will be brief and keep secure and confidential. The records will mainly consist of information regarding your reasons for seeking treatment, treatment goals and progress and invoice details. You have the right to a copy of your file, except in the unusual circumstances that involve danger to yourself or others. Because there are professional records, they may be misinterpreted and/or be upsetting to untrained readers. For this reason, I recommend you initially review them with me or other mental health professionals before sharing them with other people. Also by signing this agreement you allow me to contact your GP should I have any concerns about your and /or others’ safety.
Attendance
I will ask you to agree to give me at least 24 hours notice if you are unable to attend a session. This is to cover fees that I incur in terms of clinic facilities, transports, etc. If you are receiving treatment through an insurance company, I will need your policy details and evidence that they will cover the full treatment fee.