1. Overview
At Kirsten Jones Counselling & Wellbeing, I prioritize clarity and transparency regarding all financial matters from the start of our therapeutic relationship.
This document outlines my fees, payment processes, and policies concerning cancellations or missed sessions. These terms constitute our formal agreement and will be reviewed with you prior to our initial session.
I understand that financial situations differ for everyone, and I am committed to handling all payment discussions with empathy, fairness, and professional integrity.
2. Service Fees
My standard rate is:
£55 for each 50-minute session, applicable to both online and in-person appointments.
If we have negotiated a different rate—such as a student discount, accessible pricing, or another concession—this specific amount will be finalized and confirmed before we begin our work together.
Special rates are subject to current availability and may be reassessed periodically.
3. How to Pay
Payments are accepted via bank transfer (BACS).
Your specific billing schedule will be determined before our first session and detailed within your Counselling Contract.
Depending on our agreement, payment may be due at the time of the appointment or in advance of the session.
The established payment method will continue for the duration of our work together unless we mutually decide to adjust it in advance.
By booking, you acknowledge that your session time is dedicated exclusively to you, and adhering to these payment terms is a core part of our contract.
4. Cancellations and Rescheduling
I recognize that life is unpredictable and you may occasionally need to change an appointment.
I require a minimum of 48 hours’ notice for any cancellations or requests to reschedule.
When at least 48 hours’ notice is given, no charges will be incurred, and we will look for a suitable alternative time.
Sessions cancelled with less than 48 hours’ notice, or missed without any notification, will be billed at the full session rate.
This policy exists because your time slot is reserved solely for you, making it difficult to offer that space to others on short notice.
5. Emergencies and Mitigating Circumstances
I understand that genuine emergencies, sudden illnesses, or unforeseen crises can happen.
I review these situations on a case-by-case basis and may, at my own discretion, waive or lower the cancellation fee for truly exceptional circumstances.
My goal is to maintain a compassionate and balanced approach when life events are beyond your control.
6. Late Arrivals
If you arrive after your scheduled start time, the session will still conclude at the original end time to ensure other clients are not impacted.
The full fee for the session remains applicable.
If you are more than 15 minutes late without prior contact, the session may be treated as a no-show, and the full fee will be charged.
Please reach out as soon as possible if you realize you will be delayed.
7. Cancellations by the Therapist
Should I need to cancel or move your session due to personal illness or an emergency, I will provide as much notice as I possibly can.
If you have already paid for a session that I cancel, you may choose to apply that credit to a future appointment or receive a full refund.
8. Packages and Block Bookings
If you choose to book a block of sessions, all pricing, discounts, and specific terms will be fully explained before you complete the transaction.
Any additional rules regarding rescheduling or unused sessions in a package will be agreed upon at the point of purchase.
I do not require a long-term commitment upfront unless we specifically decide that a fixed-term approach is best for your therapeutic goals.
9. Adjusting Fees
I periodically review my rates to account for the rising costs of providing professional services.
If I plan to increase my fees for ongoing clients, I will provide ample notice before the change takes effect.
We will always discuss any fee adjustments before they are applied to your account.
10. Unpaid Balances
If a payment is missed, I will reach out to you directly to find a resolution.
If a balance stays unpaid without a clear plan for resolution, I may need to pause our sessions until the account is current or a new arrangement is made.
I handle all discussions regarding debt with sensitivity and respect.
11. Session Receipts
Receipts are available upon request.
If you need documentation for health insurance, employer reimbursement, or personal records, please inform me at the time of payment or shortly thereafter.
12. Accessibility and Inclusion
I am committed to making mental health support as accessible as possible.
I offer a limited number of lower-cost slots for individuals facing financial hardship, such as students or those on low incomes.
These spaces are subject to current capacity and must be agreed upon before we start our work.
If your financial status changes during our time together, please let me know so we can explore sustainable ways to continue your therapy.
13. Finishing Therapy
You have the autonomy to end our counselling relationship at any time.
If you decide to stop, I encourage you to attend a closing session so we can reflect on your progress and ensure a healthy conclusion to our work.
Please note that any sessions already conducted must be paid for in full.
14. Policy Updates
This policy is reviewed regularly to ensure it stays transparent and aligned with ethical best practices.
Existing clients will be notified of any significant changes to these terms before they become active.
15. Professional Compliance
My practice adheres to the Ethical Framework of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP).
These financial guidelines are designed to be fair and protective for both the client and the therapist.
Kirsten Jones Counselling & Wellbeing
BACP Registered Counsellor
[Email address]