Psychological Therapy
Welcome, and thank you for considering working with me.
Starting psychological therapy is an important step, and it’s natural to have questions. This welcome pack explains how therapy works, what you can expect from me, and what I will expect from you. It is designed to help you feel informed, safe, and supported from the outset.
If anything is unclear, please feel free to ask at any time.
About My Practice (Scope of Practice)
I am a UK-registered Clinical Psychologist providing psychological assessment and therapy to adults. My work is informed by evidence-based psychological approaches, which may include Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing (EMDR), trauma-informed approaches and integrative psychological models.
I work within the limits of my professional training and experience. If I believe that another service or specialist would better meet your needs, I will discuss this openly with you and help you access appropriate support.
Informed Consent
Therapy is a collaborative process. Before we begin, I will explain:
What therapy involves and how sessions usually work
The potential benefits and possible emotional challenges
Practical arrangements such as fees and cancellations
How your personal information is recorded and stored
You are free to ask questions at any point. Therapy is voluntary, and you may pause or end therapy whenever you choose.
Confidentiality
Your privacy is very important.
What you share in therapy is confidential, with a small number of legal and ethical exceptions:
• If there is a serious risk of harm to you or to someone else
• If there are safeguarding concerns involving a child or vulnerable adult
• If disclosure is required by law (for example, by a court order)
Wherever possible, I will discuss any need to share information with you in advance.
Records and Notes
I keep brief, professional notes to support safe and effective therapy. These may include session themes, clinical observations, and relevant risk considerations.
Records are:
• Stored securely
• Kept only for legitimate clinical and administrative purposes
• Retained for an appropriate period
• Securely destroyed when no longer needed
You have the right to request access to your personal data.
Data Protection and Privacy
I am registered with the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) and comply with UK data-protection law.
Your information is:
• Collected only for therapy and essential administration
• Stored securely
• Never shared without a lawful reason
A full Privacy Notice is available on request.
Safety and Risk
Your wellbeing is always a priority. If concerns arise about your safety or the safety of others, I may:
• Discuss additional support options with you
• Encourage contact with appropriate crisis or emergency services
• Consult with relevant professionals where necessary
Please note that therapy is not an emergency service. If you are in immediate danger, you should contact emergency services or local crisis support:
If you are in immediate danger or feel unable to keep yourself safe, please call 999.
For urgent mental health support in Cornwall, you can contact the NHS 24/7 Mental Health Response Line on 0800 038 5300, or call 111 and select the mental health option. You can also access confidential emotional support at any time via Samaritans on 116 123, or by texting SHOUT to 85258. Therapy is not an emergency service, and these services are the quickest way to access immediate help when needed.
Safeguarding
I have a professional responsibility to safeguard children and adults who may be at risk of harm. Any safeguarding concerns will be handled sensitively and in line with legal and professional requirements, with openness wherever possible.
Professional Boundaries
Clear boundaries help therapy remain safe and effective. This includes:
• Sessions taking place only in agreed professional settings (in-person or online)
• Limited contact outside sessions, usually for practical matters only
• Avoiding dual or multiple relationships that could interfere with therapy
These boundaries are in place to protect you and the therapeutic process.
Supervision and Professional Standards
I attend regular clinical supervision with a suitably qualified supervisor, as required by professional standards. Supervision supports reflective, ethical, and high-quality practice. Client confidentiality is always respected.
I also undertake ongoing professional development to ensure my work remains current and evidence-based.
Fees, Cancellations, and Missed Appointments
Session fees and payment arrangements will be explained before therapy begins.
Cancellations usually require at least 48 hours’ notice for a full refund and late cancellations or missed appointments may be charged, except in exceptional circumstances.
Online and Remote Therapy
If sessions are held online, I use secure platforms and will discuss:
• The benefits and limitations of remote therapy
• What to do if there are technical difficulties
• How to maintain privacy at your end
Feedback and Concerns
I aim to provide a respectful, professional service. If you have any concerns:
1. Please raise them with me directly where possible
2. If needed, you may make a formal complaint to my supervisor. I will share their details once we begin therapy
3. You also have the right to contact the HCPC
Feedback is welcome and taken seriously.
Equality, Diversity, and Respect
I am committed to providing a service that is inclusive, respectful, and free from discrimination. Please let me know if you require any reasonable adjustments or have specific access needs.
Final Thoughts
I hope this welcome pack helps you feel informed and reassured. Therapy works best when there is openness, trust, and collaboration. Please ask if you would like clarification on any part of this information.
I look forward to working with you.