Policies

 

Policies aren’t a whole lot of fun to read (or to write, for that matter). That said, these ones are included here because they cover important topics that it’s necessary for a counselling client – or potential client – to be aware of.

If you can’t find the answer to something you’re looking for here, drop me a line using the contact page.

(Policies last updated Feb 2024)

Covid-19 Policy
  1. Dee decides whether they are comfortable seeing any or all clients face-to-face, based on her .perceived level of risk.
  2. Any clients who wish to cancel or postpone due to Covid-19 (diagnosed or otherwise) are encouraged to do so, and will not be charged any cancellation fee.
  3. Any client who is unvaccinated or chooses not to disclose their vaccination status will only be seen virtually.
  4. If Dee has agreed to face-to-face sessions, any client who feels unwell on the day of their session has the following options: to a) cancel or postpone, b) request a zoom session, or c) attend wearing a face mask (the latter if agreed to by Dee).
  5. For face-to-face sessions, hand sanitiser and surface spray is available in the office at all times. Use of sanitiser is encouraged.
  6. For face-to-face sessions, if Dee is feeling unwell she will let clients know promptly, so they have the option of cancelling or switching to zoom if required. Dee has her own N95 or equivalent face masks and is happy to wear one during a face-to-face session if requested by a client.
  7. If Dee suspects possible exposure to Covid-19 she will get tested, self-isolate, and let clients know as soon as possible of the outcome. This is so clients can make an informed decision.
  8. Please be aware that if Dee is diagnosed with Covid-19, confidentiality does NOT extend to contact tracing. Minimum possible information will be shared (for example: name, date seen).
Payment
  1. The price of a session will be provided to the client in advance.
  2. Payment must be made either a) in advance or b) at the end of each session.
  3. Payment options are cash (if session was face-to-face), or bank transfer.
  4. For bank transfers please pay: QPK COUNSELLING LTD 12-3119-0106375-00 and include the session date and time as reference.
  5. In the event that payment is not made at the end of a session then no further sessions for that client will be booked until payment has been received.
  6. GST receipts are provided upon request.
  7. Goods and services will not be accepted in lieu of payment.
  8. Koha may be negotiated.
Sessions
  1. All sessions are one hour (60 minutes) long.
  2. Sessions may go over time upon mutual agreement.
  3. All sessions will take place in the QPK Counselling professional rooms in Auckland; or virtually via zoom, skype, or phone call.
  4. Virtual sessions, and face-to-face sessions, are the same length.
Availability
  1. Available counselling hours are clearly listed on the website.
  2. For sessions during those hours standard fees are charged.
  3. Out-of-hours sessions may be provided at Dee’s discretion.
Cancellation
  1. It would be preferable to receive several days notice if the client is cancelling or rescheduling an appointment (this gives the opportunity to reallocate the time to someone else).
  2. If cancellation or rescheduling takes place with less than 24 hours notice then the client will be charged full price for the session.
  3. Koha/pro-bono clients who cancel with less than 24 hours notice will be charged a $20 cancellation fee.
  4. Exceptions may be made (e.g. in the case of accident) but are at Dee’s discretion.
  5. If cancelling due to covid, please let Dee know as there will be no charge.
  6. Payment for a cancelled session must be made before another session can be booked.
Complaints
  1. If you have any concerns, complaints, or questions, please talk with Dee about this.
  2. If you are unsatisfied after talking, then a complaints procedure will be followed.
Confidentiality
  1. Everything shared in the QPK Counselling space – either face-to-face or virtual – during a session remains confidential, with some exceptions:
  2. SUPERVISION: Dee attends regular clinical supervision. Session information may be shared with the supervisor (who maintains confidence) in order to improve professional skills. Identities are not shared.
  3. RISK OF HARM: If Dee believes that a client is at imminent risk of harm to others or themselves then legally the relevant information must be shared with appropriate authorities.
  4. In the event that confidential information needs to be passed on to reduce risk, the minimum possible information is shared, and only to those with whom it is absolutely necessary.
  5. The usual filing system for sensitive documents is used for client details and notes.
  6. All notes and details are destroyed 10 years after the client’s last session.