In the first one or two sessions the counsellor will make a verbal contract with the client, which will include:

• the agreed day and time of meeting
• the agreed payment for the counselling session
• arrangements for cancelled sessions and holidays
• the duration of the counselling

This contract is discussed and agreed, and represents the commitment for both parties to work together

Psychodynamic counselling may be used for an agreed limited period or be open ended. In either situation, the ending of the counselling relationship is an important aspect of the work. The date of the last session is agreed by both parties in advance or in the latter stages of the counselling process, to avoid a sudden or abrupt ending to the counselling.

Confidentiality

Confidentiality is important in therapy. The counsellor is bound by the BACP Code of Ethics on confidentiality and would only consider breaking confidentiality:

if the patient discloses ongoing abuse and/or neglect of a child or vulnerable adult 

if there is a risk that patient will endanger himself or others

where there is a legal requirement to do so (e.g. under the Terrorism Act 2000)

In such cases the counsellor would normally discuss the issue with the patient and support them in taking the matter further if required. 

In accordance with the BACP Code of Ethics, the counsellor will not discuss the therapy sessions with anyone except in supervision.