1) Participation in counselling is voluntary; however the collaborative outcome is directly influenced by the client’s willingness to actively engage in the therapeutic process with the counsellor. The client may terminate the sessions at any time and that decision will be supported.

 

2) As a client progresses through counselling there can be emotional ups and downs. Sometimes in counselling one may feel worse before they feel better, this is a normal part of therapy. It is important to stick with the therapeutic process, just as it is important to keep exercising even when our muscles might be sore, or to finish antibiotics for their full prescribed course, even when there might be some discomfort. This issue can be discussed more if there are any questions or concerns. 

 

 3) The counsellor may consult with trusted colleagues or other health professionals regarding the management of cases. This is to ensure the clients best standard of care, the counselor’s objectivity, and to consider alternate perspectives on important concerns. If this happens, the client’s identity will remain anonymous. 

 

 4) Case notes for each session aid the counsellor in keeping track of client progress. The client may have access to these notes at any time if requested, and they are securely protected.

 

 5) Confidentiality is kept in high regard. There are a few exceptions: 

• If the client informs the counsellor that they are going to harm themselves or someone else.
• If the client reports the abuse of a disabled, minor, or elderly person, and help for that person is not already being provided.
• If the counsellor receives a court order from a judge requesting case notes.
• If the client directs the counsellor to share information with another person.

 

6) All services fall within the law and jurisdiction of Canada.

 

There are ethical guidelines that define a counsellor’s practice. Any complaints may be reported to the Association of Cooperative Counselling Therapists of Canada (ACCT) 

www.acctcounsellor.com