Terms & Conditions

IBC is used to refer to Ingrid Brewer-Chalmers throughout these Terms.

THE THERAPEUTIC RELATIONSHIP

IBC is required to adhere to the code of ethics and standards of practice put forth by the British Psychological Society, the NCP, APHP and the Dubai Health Authority.

CONFIDENTIALITY AND LIMITS OF CONFIDENTIALITY

With the exception of some specific limits of confidentiality described below, clients have the absolute right to confidentiality of their information. Clients are assured that all personal information gathered by IBC during the provision of psychological/coaching/therapy services will remain confidential and secure.

If IBC needs to obtain/release information from/to other individuals, doctors, emergency services, family members and/or schools, signed consent for written release of information will be required from the client to authorise such activities.

IBC may occasionally find it necessary to consult other professionals about a client’s treatment for the purposes of supervision or peer review. During a professional consultation, no identifying information about clients will be revealed. The consultant or supervisor will also be bound to keep all information confidential. By the standards of practice in psychotherapy and psychology such consultations do not represent a violation of confidentiality.

LIMITS OF CONFIDENTIALITY

Clients’ right to confidentiality will change in certain circumstances only:

  • When the client waives their right to privacy and gives written consent for a specific reason.
  • When there are issues around client safety.
  • In matters affecting the welfare or abuse of children, vulnerable adults or the elderly.
  • When ordered by an official of the court as required by law.

INFORMATION COLLECTION AND STORAGE

I understand that IBC will collect and store information relevant to my mental health/coaching support/personal development. This information will be kept for a period of 6 months following the end of a program of therapy or coaching. IBC will follow the international guidance for GDPR.

WORKING WITH MINORS

Minors are considered to be under 18.

In general, children work better if parents are not directly in the room or line of sight, but close by (just outside or out of sight, even with a door ajar to a parent sitting immediately outside). It is important for me to respect parental rights whilst also maintaining a strong positive relationship with the child.

Children’s best interests will be respected at all times.

IBC will also provide parents with a verbal summary of the work upon treatment completion if needed. If a parent requests access to a minor’s notes, the notes may be viewed under the close supervision of IBC. The notes cannot be replicated.

In accordance with UAE law, if physical or sexual abuse or neglect are reported by a child or parent, I am legally required to report this to the relevant authorities.

SESSIONS

Session duration, times, and frequency will be determined based on the individual needs of the client. Generally, sessions will last for 60-90 minutes for adults and 45-60 minutes for children. Typically, sessions are held once a week. More frequent meetings may be arranged or recommended to facilitate more intensive work. All phone conversations, emails, or reports that require more than 15 minutes are deemed to constitute a therapy session and will be billed at the standard applicable hourly rate (pro-rated, as necessary, for the actual amount of time spent). This is always at the discretion of IBC.

IBC in conjunction with the client, will decide when to terminate therapy based on the client’s needs. IBC can terminate client care if they judge that they are unable to assist a client effectively for any of the following reasons:

  • The client is no longer benefiting from therapy.
  •  The client can no longer afford the agreed-upon fees for services.
    In such cases, alternative referrals will be provided.

FEES, BILLING AND PAYMENT

Sessions are to be paid in advance of the session via bank transfer. A payment link will be sent in advance.
For new clients: payment is required within 24 hours of booking the session in order for the session to be confirmed. You will receive payment details via SMS or email.
Cash payments are also accepted at the time of the session.
Invoices will be issued as reminders, for late payments or as requested.

CANCELLATION AND NON-ATTENDANCE OF SESSIONS

If for any reason a client is unable to attend a scheduled session, they are requested to contact IBC as soon as possible and at least 24 hours before a session. Sessions that are cancelled later than the cutoff time or missed without notification may be charged.
This is always at the discretion of IBC.

ONLINE SESSIONS

If we to engage in sessions online via Zoom or any other agreed online video platform, clients must understands that communicating via the Internet is not 100% secure. The following points apply:

  • The terms of confidentiality are the same as those for in-person sessions and apply to all information shared during online sessions.
  • Sessions should not be recorded by either party unless requested in advance.
  • IBC uses the Zoom online video platform for virtual sessions.
  • You will require a webcam or smartphone/iPad for the session.
  • It is important to be on time and in a quiet, private space that is free of distractions (including mobile phone or other devices) during the session.
  • It is important to use a secure internet connection rather than public/free Wi-Fi.
  • A back-up plan is advisable (e.g., a phone number where you can be reached) to restart the session or to reschedule it, in the event of technical difficulties.

INACTIVE CLIENTS

Please note, clients who have not engaged in therapy for a period of six months are considered inactive clients. As such, if you seek to resume services 6 months after your last session – this may mean that your records are no longer on file, unless a specific request is made to hold them. This complies with international guidelines on data protection.

CLIENT RIGHTS

You have the right to be informed about the goals, purposes, techniques, limitations, possible risks, and benefits of services to be undertaken. Treatment goals and strategies to be used will be agreed upon the client and IBC. You have the right to expect IBC to be punctual, to meet with you as frequently as agreed upon, and to respond to your communications in a timely manner. If IBC needs to postpone a meeting, you will be provided with an appropriate cancellation notice.

CLIENT RESPONSIBILITIES

I undertake to:

  • Give my written general consent for treatment to IBC prior to attending my first session.
  • Provide the relevant/required completed and signed forms.
  • Provide IBC with information that is accurate and complete to allow them to fully assess my need and provide care for me.
  • Ask for clarification of matters I do not understand or am unsure about.
  • Attend sessions on time.
  • Work collaboratively on carrying out the agreed upon treatment plan.
  • Follow IBC’s instructions and treatment recommendations wherever possible.
  • Hold responsibility for refusing or not following the treatment plan, after being informed of consequences.
  • Adhere to the Cancellation Policy.
  • Show consideration for others in only cancelling appointments where strictly necessary and providing appropriate notice.