Couples Therapy Contract

Couples / Relationship Counselling Agreement

 

1. What Couples Counselling Is

Couples counselling offers a safe, structured space to explore your relationship — including communication, conflict, connection, and strengths.

The focus is on the relationship, not on either partner individually. I work neutrally and do not take sides.

 

2. The Couple as the Client

In couples counselling:

• The relationship is the client

• Both partners agree to take part respectfully and honestly

• Either partner may choose to end counselling at any time

 

3. Confidentiality

What you share in sessions is confidential, in line with the BACP Ethical Framework and the law.

Confidentiality may be broken if:

• There is risk of serious harm to you or others

• There are safeguarding concerns involving children or vulnerable adults

• Disclosure is required by law

 

- Important for Couples Work – No Secrets

Because this is relationship therapy, information shared privately that affects the relationship cannot be kept from the other partner.

This includes:

• Affairs or infidelity

• Financial secrecy affecting the relationship

• Intentions to end the relationship

I will support disclosure within sessions. If important information is withheld, I may review whether it is appropriate to continue couples counselling.

 

4. Individual Sessions

Occasionally, individual sessions may be offered to support the couples work.

Any information relevant to the relationship may be brought back into joint sessions, after discussion.

 

5. Safety and Domestic Abuse Screening

Couples counselling is not suitable where:

• There is domestic abuse, coercive control, or intimidation

• One partner feels afraid of the other

• There is significant risk of harm

If these concerns are present, couples counselling may be paused or not started, and appropriate individual or specialist support will be discussed. Your safety always comes first.

 

6. Emotional Impact

Couples counselling can involve strong emotions and difficult conversations. This is a normal part of the process.

You may ask to pause, slow down, or ground at any time.

 

7. Practical Details

• Session length: 50 minutes

• Fee: £80 per session

• Payment: Bank transfer

• Frequency: As agreed

 

8. Cancellations

Please give 48 hours’ notice to cancel or reschedule.

• Less than 48 hours’ notice: 50% fee

• Within 24 hours or missed sessions: 100% fee

 

9. Location

Sessions take place:

• In person (therapy room or your home)

• Online via Zoom

 

10. Ending Counselling

Either you or I may end counselling at any time. A conversation about endings is encouraged where possible.

Concerns can be raised with me directly or via BACP if needed.

 

11. Emergencies

I am not available outside sessions.

In an emergency, contact your GP, NHS 111, or 999.

 

12. Consent

By signing below, you confirm that you understand and agree to this contract and consent to couples counselling.​