Penny Smyly

Transpersonal Psychotherapist

Code of Ethics
I subscribe to the codes of ethics of UK Council for Psychotherapy

Practice

My policy with regard to practical arrangements for therapy sessions seeks to establish high standards of good practice in the interest of the client, and the process we are engaged in together. My expectation is that both parties approach the work with sincerity and integrity. This includes a commitment to fulfilling arrangements to the best of our ability, honouring the framework and boundaries, and maintaining an attitude flexible enough to meet individual needs and circumstances appropriately. It is my concern to be fair to both client and therapist in matters concerning time and money.

Session times and fees

Therapy sessions last for one hour from the time arranged.

The fees at the current rate agreed between us is payable at the end of each session. Any periodic alteration to that fee will be discussed before it is due to take effect.

Frequency of sessions is a matter of discussion at the start of therapy. Periodic reviews of the work in hand are part of the process and may be initiated whether by the therapist or the client. They may include re-negotiation of the intervals between sessions and in due course working towards termination.

Holidays

Occasional absence from sessions for holidays is not normally charged, but notification in plenty of time when they are planned is appreciated as a matter of courtesy.

Cancellations

These are exceptionally unavoidable on either side. My aim is to keep them to a minimum and to communicate as promptly and considerately as possible if they become inevitable. I ask the same from the client.

Occasional unavailability for a regular session is negotiable and should be discussed in advance. An alternative time may be offered if it is available. Short term cancellation will be charged.

Emergency cancellations due to illness etc., is a matter for discretion and will be sympathetically regarded.

Confidentiality

The process and content of sessions is confidential. In their own interest, I suggest clients are likely to benefit from regarding that confidentiality as pertaining to them as well as to the therapist in order to protect the integrity of the process.

Clients should be aware that the therapists are required to have access to supervisory consultation in respect of their work and that case material may be discussed in that situation with sensitive and conscientious consideration of its confidential nature. This procedure is set up and practised in accordance with specified codes of ethics and practice.

Finally

If you have any question or concern related to any of these points, please do not hesitate to bring it up within the session so that hopefully we may find a way to resolve it satisfactorily.