Online Counselling Agreement
Practice Policy, Person-Centred Therapeutic Framework & Confidentiality Standards
About Me
My name is Anotida Macdonald, an ACCPH‑accredited Counsellor & Psychotherapist and NMC‑registered Mental Health Nurse. I adhere to the ACCPH Ethical Framework for Good Practice and the ACCPH Guidelines for Online Counselling and Psychotherapy.
More information on accreditation standards can be found at: www.accph.org.uk
What is Person‑Centred Counselling?
The Person‑Centred Approach aligns closely with my therapeutic philosophy. At its core is the belief that people are inherently good and capable of growth when offered the right conditions.
This approach emphasises:
My aim is to provide these conditions consistently throughout our work together.
What is Online Counselling & How It Works
Online counselling allows you to engage in therapy using digital communication tools such as Zoom, email, online chat, or webcam. You choose the method that feels most comfortable, as well as the time, place, and pace that best suits your needs.
Online Chat Room
You will receive access to a secure, encrypted login area where we meet at a pre‑arranged time. Sessions last 50 minutes. A webcam is not required, and you may remain anonymous if you wish.
Webcam / Audio (Zoom)
Zoom allows us to meet face‑to‑face online. You will be guided through setting up a secure Zoom account. Sessions last 50 minutes. You may choose audio‑only if preferred. Seeing your counsellor can enhance communication through tone of voice, facial expression, and other non‑verbal cues.
Email Counselling
Email counselling offers time to reflect before sending and between exchanges. I aim to respond within 48 working hours. You will be guided in setting up a secure email account. Note: Email counselling is not suitable for urgent or crisis situations.
Benefits of Online Counselling
- Access therapy from home at a time that suits you
- Encrypted platforms provide confidentiality
- No visibility entering a counselling practice
- Ability to review written communication before sending
- Flexible pace and structure
- Writing may feel easier for some clients
- Faster access to support
- Choice of email, chat, audio, or webcam
Things to Consider
- Your comfort with technology
- Whether you prefer face‑to‑face interaction
- Your ability to express yourself in writing
- Whether your situation feels too complex for online work
- Access to a private, uninterrupted space
- Potential for misunderstanding in text‑based communication
- Limited non‑verbal cues
Confidentiality and Security
You can read my privacy policy at: www.ontimetherapy.com/privacy. All information shared with me is held in strict confidence and stored securely on a password‑protected drive.
In line with ACCPH and NMC professional standards, confidentiality may be broken if:
- You disclose involvement in terrorism, money laundering, or drug trafficking.
- There is risk of harm to yourself or others.
- There is harm or abuse involving a minor or vulnerable adult.
- • Secure Email: Email communication is encouraged through secure servers such as ProtonMail.
- • Clinical Supervision: Session material may be discussed in clinical supervision without identifying information. Supervisors adhere to the same strict confidentiality standards.
- • Encryption: Zoom counselling uses encrypted, secure enterprise connections.
- • Record Retention: Records are stored securely for 7 years (or 7 years after a child turns 18) and then permanently deleted or shredded.
- • GP Coordination: If emergency support is needed, I may request consent to contact your GP or recommend alternative healthcare services.
In an Emergency
Online counselling is not suitable if you are in crisis. Signs of crisis may include suicidal thoughts or intent to harm yourself or others.
Please contact your local Accident & Emergency (A&E) department and ask for the crisis team, or call 999 immediately.
Immediate 24/7 Helpline Support — Samaritans:
All client material is treated confidentially and removed from my computer at the end of our work together. Records are stored securely using a client ID number.
Conditions of Counselling
• Session Recording: Please do not record sessions without prior written agreement.
• Questions or Queries: If you have questions about this agreement, please contact me:
Email: admin@ontimetherapy.com | Phone: 07497208249
Agreement Sign‑Off & Referral Next Steps
Digital Agreement Confirmation
Ready to register?
Complete our dedicated Client Self‑Referral Form to provide your contact details, presenting goals, medical history, and GP details.