YD Counselling Contract (Terms & Conditions)

Qualifications and Professional Standards

YD Counselling is led by a counsellor who holds a Bachelor’s Degree (Honours) in Psychology and qualification in Integrative Therapeutic Counselling. YD Counselling’s counsellor is a registered member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (MBACP) and works in accordance with the BACP Ethical Framework. For further details, please visit: www.bacp.co.uk/ethical-framework.

Therapeutic Approach

YD Counselling offers counselling in English and Urdu, providing a safe, non-judgmental, and inclusive space for clients to explore concerns openly and honestly. YD Counselling works as an integrative practice and tailors the therapeutic approach to each client’s needs. Therapy goals will be discussed at the outset and reviewed periodically to ensure they remain aligned with the client’s progress.

Confidentiality

All information shared during sessions is treated as confidential. Confidentiality may be breached if the counsellor believes that a client is at serious risk of harm to themselves or others. In such circumstances, they may be legally obligated to act. Where possible, the counsellor will endeavour to discuss this with the client beforehand; however, the counsellor reserves the right to take immediate action if necessary.

Additionally, the counsellor may be legally required to report disclosures involving:

  • Drug trafficking

  • Terrorism

  • Money laundering

  • Child protection concerns

Outside of the counselling setting, the counsellor will not acknowledge clients unless the client initiates contact. The counsellor will not discuss any aspect of sessions outside the therapeutic environment.

Record Keeping and Supervision

The counsellor keeps brief session notes which are stored securely. These notes may be discussed anonymously during professional supervision to support safe and effective practice. YD Counselling’s supervisor is accredited by BABCP and UKCP and is bound by the same standards of confidentiality. YD Counselling complies with the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR) and the Data Protection Act 2018.

Session Details

  • Duration: Individual sessions last 50 minutes. Couples or family sessions last 90 minutes (unless otherwise agreed).

  • Late arrivals: If a client arrives more than 10 minutes late, the session will be cancelled and the fee will be non-refundable.

  • Session times: Sessions are held during standard weekday working hours. For out-of-hours availability, clients should contact YD Counselling directly.

Fees and Cancellations

  • Payment timing: Payment is required at the time of booking and must be made in advance of the session.

  • Non-payment: Failure to pay may result in the session being cancelled.

  • Client cancellations: Cancellations must be made at least 24 hours in advance via text or email.

  • Late cancellations: Cancellations made within 24 hours are non-refundable.

  • YD Counselling cancellations: If the counsellor needs to cancel due to unforeseen circumstances, as much notice as possible will be provided and an alternative appointment will be offered.

Repeated cancellations or missed appointments may result in termination of counselling services.

Emergency Support

YD Counselling is not a crisis service. If urgent assistance is required outside of session hours, clients should contact:

  • NHS: 111

  • A GP

  • Emergency Services: 999

  • Samaritans (Freephone): 116 123

Substance Use

Sessions will not proceed if a client is under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Legal Disclaimer (Including Legal Proceedings)

Counselling may involve discussing sensitive topics and may lead to emotional distress. YD Counselling makes no guarantees regarding specific outcomes or the effectiveness of therapeutic interventions. Progress varies depending on individual circumstances and factors beyond the control of the counsellor, including a client’s engagement and commitment to the therapeutic process.

By engaging in counselling, the client acknowledges and accepts the inherent risks of therapeutic work. To the fullest extent permitted by law, the client agrees that YD Counselling, its practitioners, affiliates, and representatives shall not be held liable for any emotional, psychological, or physical distress arising from participation in sessions.

Legal proceedings and court-related matters: YD Counselling does not provide reports, letters, statements, assessments, or documentation for legal purposes. YD Counselling does not accept cases that are currently involved in court proceedings or other ongoing legal processes. YD Counselling and the counsellor are unable to liaise with the police or courts, nor attend court hearings, attend police stations, or act as a witness for any reason.

YD Counselling is not responsible for any loss, theft, or damage to personal belongings brought onto the premises. All items are brought at the client’s own risk.

Client Responsibilities

The client agrees to:

  • Attend sessions regularly and punctually

  • Engage actively and honestly in the therapeutic process

  • Communicate openly about any concerns or discomfort during therapy

Medical Disclaimer

YD Counselling does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Counselling is not a substitute for medical or psychiatric care. Clients are advised to seek support from appropriate healthcare professionals where needed.