Services

Everything You Need To Know Before Your First Session

Terms & Conditions

Last updated: 01.02.2026
Terms & Conditions governing the use of this website, the provision of counselling services via telephone or online across the UK via Microsoft Teams. By accessing this website or beginning therapy, you agree to the following terms:

1. Professional Status & Ethical Frameworks I am a Registered Member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). This means all therapy is delivered in accordance with: • BACP Ethical Framework for the Counselling Professions

2. Scope of Service Therapy is delivered to adolescents and adults anywhere in the UK, exclusively through Microsoft Teams, a secure online platform. The service is suitable for individuals seeking evidence based psychological therapy, particularly talking therapy, in line with BACP guidance.

3. Therapeutic Contract Before therapy begins, you will receive a separate written therapy contract covering: • frequency and structure of sessions • confidentiality • clinical boundaries • your responsibilities as a client • my responsibilities as a therapist Therapy may only begin once this agreement is accepted.

4. Confidentiality & Data Protection (GDPR) Sherrards Counselling handles all personal data in compliance with guidance from the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) and uses GDPR compliant tools for note taking and storage. Your data is: • stored securely • used only for clinical and administrative purposes • never shared with third parties except where required by law or where there is serious risk of harm • Files are kept for 7 years or until the client reaches 25 years of age.

5. Use of Microsoft Teams & Online Therapy Risks Sessions take place via Microsoft Teams, chosen because it meets high security and confidentiality standards. However, technology carries inherent risks, including: • connection instability • data transmission vulnerabilities • environmental privacy limitations Clients are responsible for ensuring they attend sessions from a private, secure space.

6. Session Fees, Payment, Cancellations Fees will be clearly communicated before booking. Cancellation policy: • Less than 24 hours’ notice: full fee payable • Non attendance without notice: full fee payable

7. Professional Insurance I hold full professional indemnity and public liability insurance in accordance with BACP requirements.

8. Emergencies & Crisis Support This service does not provide emergency mental health support. If you are in crisis, please contact: • NHS 111 • Your GP • Samaritans: 116 123 • Emergency services (999) for immediate danger

9. Ending Therapy You may end therapy at any time. Ideally, we will plan an ending session to support the process. I may also end therapy where: • therapy is no longer clinically appropriate • fees remain unpaid • abusive or unsafe behaviour occurs • ethical or professional obligations require it

10. Complaints Procedure If you have a concern, please discuss it with me so I can address it promptly. If unresolved, you may contact: • BACP (for ethical concerns within counselling/psychotherapy)

11. Liability Disclaimer Therapy outcomes cannot be guaranteed. No liability is accepted for indirect or consequential losses arising from use of this website or therapy services, consistent with typical UK practice contracts.

12. Changes to These Terms These Terms & Conditions may be updated occasionally. Your continued use of the website or therapy services constitutes acceptance of the updated terms.