Policies

This page outlines the important policies that help ensure a safe, respectful, and supportive therapeutic environment.

These policies are designed to maintain clarity and consistency, so you know what to expect throughout the therapy process.

Discrimination & Equality Policy

Jessica Fern Counselling & Psychotherapy practice is committed to providing an inclusive, respectful, and supportive environment for all clients. Discrimination of any kind—based on race, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, religion, or any other characteristic—will not be tolerated. Every client is treated with dignity and equality, and therapy is offered in a way that honours each person’s unique background, experiences, and needs. The goal is to ensure that everyone feels safe, valued, and welcome throughout the therapeutic process.

Complaints & Compliments

If you have any concerns about your therapy, please raise them with me first so we can try to resolve the issue together. If you feel the matter remains unresolved, you may contact the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) to make a formal complaint.

I welcome any feedback or reflections you wish to share about your experience, as this supports good practice and professional growth.

Confidentiality

Confidentiality is a core part of my practice and is maintained in line with BACP guidelines. All client information and session notes are securely stored and protected. Details shared in therapy remain confidential, except in rare circumstances where there is a risk of serious harm to yourself or others, concerns about the safety of a child or vulnerable person or disclosure of certain criminal offences.

Further details about how information is stored and managed are outlined in my client contract.

Crisis Support

Please note I am unable to provide crisis intervention or emergency support outside of scheduled sessions. If you are in distress or feel unsafe:

Call 999 (UK) or go to your nearest A&E immediately.
You may also contact your GP or an out-of-hours service (such as NHS 111).
Samaritans are available 24/7 by calling 116 123.
Shout is a free, confidential 24/7 text service text SHOUT to 85258 to connect with a trained volunteer.
CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably) offers a helpline and webchat, available daily from 5 pm to midnight.

You are not alone. These services are available to help you at any time.

Privacy

Your privacy is very important to me. Any personal information you share such as contact details, session notes, or information submitted through this website is handled in accordance with UK GDPR and data protection law. All data is stored securely and used only for purposes directly related to your therapy. I do not share your information with third parties unless required by law or with your explicit consent.

I also have a separate Online Privacy Policy outlining how privacy is maintained when working remotely via Microsoft Teams or other online platforms, which can be shared with you upon request. More detailed information about data protection and storage is provided in my client contract.

DBS

I hold an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) certificate, confirming that I am approved to work safely with individuals. This is renewed annually to ensure ongoing compliance with safeguarding and professional standards.

Remote Working

I only offer remote therapy sessions via Microsoft Teams Video and telephone .

All online work is delivered in line with the BACP Ethical Framework and current professional guidance on remote and online therapy.

Before beginning remote work, suitability and risk are carefully assessed to ensure this way of working is safe and appropriate. Confidentiality, informed consent, and safeguarding remain central to my practice, and the same professional boundaries and ethical standards apply as they would in face-to-face therapy.

I take reasonable steps to protect privacy and data security, and clients are encouraged to attend sessions from a safe, private space. Risk is reviewed on an ongoing basis, and clear procedures are in place should concerns arise.

A full Remote Working & Online Therapy Policy is available on request.

BACP Registration

I am a Registered Member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). This means I meet BACP’s professional standards for training, ethical practice, and ongoing professional development.

As a BACP-registered therapist, I work in line with the BACP Ethical Framework, which places strong emphasis on confidentiality, client safety, professional boundaries, and working in the client’s best interests. My work is supported by regular clinical supervision and ongoing training to ensure safe, ethical, and effective practice.

I am also currently working towards BACP accreditation. This process involves demonstrating a sustained level of competent and ethical practice, reflective working, and continued professional development over time. As a practitioner, this means I am committed to learning, accountability, and maintaining high professional standards in my work with clients.