Boundaries

Why Boundaries Matter in Therapy

Boundaries create the structure that makes therapy safe. They define the frame within which our work takes place — when, where, and how we meet, and the nature of our professional relationship. These boundaries exist to protect both clients and therapists and to ensure the therapeutic space remains focused and trustworthy.

The Frame

All sessions are held online via a secure video platform. Sessions last 50 minutes and are usually held at the same time each week. Keeping to a regular time and format helps create consistency, which supports the therapeutic process.

If you need to cancel or reschedule, at least 48 hours' notice is required. Late cancellations or missed sessions may incur the full session fee.

The Professional Relationship

The relationship between therapist and client is a professional one. While it may feel close and personal — and that warmth is an important part of the work — it is different from a friendship or social relationship.

This means:

• We will not have contact outside of sessions except for scheduling and administrative purposes
• I will not accept connection requests on social media
• I will not attend social events where we might both be present in a dual role My contract states: "The therapist avoids dual or conflicting relationships with clients (e.g., social, business, or personal relationships) that could impair professional judgment or the therapeutic process."
• If we happen to meet in a public setting, I will follow your lead on whether to acknowledge each other, to protect your privacy

Confidentiality Boundaries

Everything discussed in therapy is confidential, with limited exceptions. Confidentiality may need to be broken if there is a risk of serious harm to you or others, if disclosure is legally required, or if there is suspected abuse of a child or vulnerable adult. Where possible, I will discuss this with you before taking any action. For full details, see Confidentiality.

Contact Between Sessions

I am available by email for practical matters such as scheduling and payments. Email is not an appropriate channel for therapeutic content — things that come up between sessions are best brought to our next session.

If you experience a crisis between sessions, please contact the emergency services or crisis support lines listed on Crisis and Emergency Guidance. I am not able to provide out-of-hours or emergency support.

Your Responsibilities

As a client, you are asked to attend sessions on time, provide honest information, engage respectfully, and not record sessions without written consent. You are responsible for the decisions you make based on our work together.

My Responsibilities

I am responsible for maintaining a safe and professional therapeutic space, working within my competence, attending regular clinical supervision, and upholding the ethical framework of the BACP.