In ongoing sessions we will talk together about your life and your problems. It is hoped that as you encounter consistency, reliability and other personal qualities, that a trusting relationship will develop between us. In a relationship such as this, people are more inclined to feel safe enough to begin sharing thoughts and feelings.
During the early stages of your therapy, you and I will work together to formulate a Therapeutic Contract. In order to complete this I will ask a series of questions
What is your goal for coming to counselling/psychotherapy?
How will you and I know when you have reached your goal?
What might you need to let go of to reach your goal?
What do you imagine may emerge in place of what you give up?
How may you prevent yourself from reaching your goal?
What part do you see me play in helping you to reach your goal?
(Lister-Ford 2002: 42)
Over the course of your therapy you may find yourself developing some important insights into yourself, your problems and your relationships generally. You will also have opportunities to make contact with feelings connected with current and past events.
It is usual for therapist and client to periodically check in to review progress and to see if the client is making progress as the therapeutic journey advances.
Initially we could contract for a specific number of sessions. It is usual to begin with 6 before a review. Other clients prefer an open ended contract.
Rarely, issues can arise that require therapists to breach confidentiality, those being
Where the client gives consent for the confidence to be broken
Where the therapist is compelled to break confidence by a court of law
Where the information is of such gravity that confidentiality cannot be maintained: for example where there is a possibility of harm to self or others and in cases of criminal activity
In supervision (where the client identity is always protected)
Where a locum therapist needs to know about a client.
Where a GP or referring Agency requires a report, a copy of which is always given to the client.
My practice is located in the village of Ovington, just a mile from the A69, approximately 10 miles from the A1, west of Newcastle, 5 miles from Corbridge, 11 miles from Ponteland and close to Hexham and Newcastle.
You can call me privately on the following number but please note that in order to maintain confidentiality, I don't return missed calls from unknown numbers. If I am unable to answer a call, please leave a voice or text message so I know it is safe to respond.
debbie@northstarpsychotherapy.co.uk
07790 772140
Location: Ovington, Tyne Valley