Relationship Therapy Contract

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Purpose of this Agreement

This agreement outlines the scope and nature of Relationship Counselling to support clarity and mutual understanding of the therapeutic relationship.

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Scope of Therapy

Relationship Counselling focuses on the relationship as the client, rather than on each individual separately. While individual experiences and concerns may arise, the emphasis remains on the patterns, communication styles, values, and challenges within the relationship dynamic.

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The therapeutic process may explore difficult emotions, conflict, and patterns that have developed over time. Sessions aim to support both partners to express themselves more clearly and work towards shared goals.

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Confidentiality and No Secrets Policy

Pause You Counselling maintains strict confidentiality in line with professional ethical guidelines and legal requirements. However, in couples therapy:

• I operate under a “No Secrets” policy, meaning that information disclosed in individual conversations may be shared in joint sessions if it impacts the relationship.

• Communication from one partner (e.g., emails or texts) may be discussed in joint sessions where clinically relevant.

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Please note the following legal limits to confidentiality:

• Risk of harm – If there is reason to believe that you or your partner are at risk of harming yourself or another, I am required to notify appropriate supports or authorities.

• Abuse or neglect – If there is disclosure or suspicion of abuse or neglect to your partner, children, vulnerable adults, or prenatal exposure to harmful substances, I must report this to appropriate agencies.

• Legal obligations – Information may be subpoenaed by a court of law.

• Supervision – I may discuss de-identified case content in professional supervision to ensure best practice.

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Consent and Voluntary Participation

Engaging in therapy is entirely voluntary. Both partners are expected to:

• Consent to participation

• Engage respectfully and honestly

• Acknowledge that therapy can bring up challenging emotions

 

You have the right to withdraw from therapy at any time. I ask that, wherever possible, any decision to pause or end therapy be discussed together in session to allow for a thoughtful transition.

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Goals and Participation

Relationship Counselling works best when both partners are willing to engage, reflect, and take responsibility for their part in the relationship dynamic. Please note:

• Therapy is a space to explore and grow; it does not guarantee reconciliation or a specific outcome.

• Change often requires time, patience, and effort from both partners between sessions.

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Ending Therapy

It is recommended that the counselling relationship concludes with a planned final session. This helps consolidate progress and ensures a supported ending.

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Pause You Counselling reserves the right halt therapy mid-session if:

• Safety concerns arise.

• Persistent disrespectful or inappropriate behaviour towards your partner or the therapist occurs.

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Pause You Counselling reserves the right to refer you to another professional or discontinue therapy if:

• The scope of issues is outside the practice’s capacity.

• Therapy is no longer serving your relationship constructively.

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Agreement and Consent

Please acknowledge you have read the Relationship Therapy Contract when completing the Relationship Therapy Form emailed to you prior to your appointment.