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Availability & Appointments

• Hours: Monday–Saturday, 09:00–16:00 and 20:00–00:00 (limited by arrangement) (UK time).

• Booking: Sessions are pre‑arranged by email at andrew.c.hart.counselling@gmail.com, or scheduled at the end of a session. 

• Response time: Emails and messages are usually responded to within 48 hours, Monday–Saturday.

• Clashes/Unavailability: If a requested slot isn’t available, I’ll offer the next suitable time. Planned absences (annual leave, training, etc.) are communicated with at least 48 hours’ notice by email or text.

• Unexpected absence: In the rare event of illness or emergency, I will contact you as soon as possible. You may choose a refund or rebook.

• Session length: 45 minutes per individual session.

About Me

I have worked in the Prison Service for the past five years, and previously in services supporting young people and adults with acquired brain injuries (ABI). I have also worked in addiction and bereavement agencies. I hold a degree in Counselling Psychology and have completed ongoing CPD across modalities including Person‑Centred, Existential, CBT, Transactional Analysis (TA), and Emotion‑Focused/Relationship‑focused approaches.

Alongside group facilitation and staff development, my core strength is one‑to‑one work—helping clients clarify goals, build self‑understanding, and make sustainable change.

3) Therapeutic Approach

I work integratively/eclectically, drawing from a practical toolbox of evidence‑informed approaches to match your needs and preferences. The focus is on collaborative goal‑setting, compassionate listening, and paced exploration—supporting change without rushing or pathologising your experience. Where useful, we may blend psychoeducation, skills practice, and reflective discussion.

4) Areas of Experience

I have experience with a range of concerns, including (but not limited to): - Addiction and compulsive behaviours - Anger and emotional regulation - Anxiety and stress - Bereavement and loss - Body image and self‑esteem - Depression and low mood - Health‑related emotional impacts - Financial stress - Relationship difficulties and breakdown - Self‑harm - Trauma

If a need is outside my competence, I will discuss referrals or signposting to appropriate services.

Contact & Online Delivery

• First contact: Please contact me by email to begin.

• Platforms: Sessions are delivered online via Microsoft Teams, Zoom, or WhatsApp (video or audio). Text‑based sessions are also available if preferred.

• Age: I primarily work with adults (18+). Work with children or young people under 18 will be considered only in rare circumstances, and requires written consent and identity verification from a legal guardian. Safeguarding documentation will be securely stored in line with UK data protection law.

6) Fees & Payment

• Fee: £50 per 45‑minute session.

• Payment method: Bank transfer only.

• Payment timing: Payment is due before the session.

Bank details (for payment):

Bank Name: Santander

Account Number: 38558670

Sort Code: 09‑01‑29

7) Cancellations & Refunds

• 48‑hour policy: If you cancel 48 hours or more before your session, I will refund your fee in full. Cancellations within 48 hours are charged in full.

• Multiple bookings: You may schedule or cancel multiple future sessions in advance.

8) Confidentiality & Data Protection

• I adhere to the Íø±¬ÃÅ Ethical Framework and maintain strict confidentiality.

• Limits to confidentiality: There are specific legal and ethical limits—for example, serious risk of harm to self/others, safeguarding concerns, or legal obligations. I will explain these clearly and discuss any necessary steps with you where possible.

• Recording: Sessions are not recorded.

• Records & privacy: I keep brief, proportionate notes in line with data protection requirements. You have rights under UK data protection law (e.g., to access or correct your data). Details are available on request.

First Session – What to Expect

Before we meet, you will receive a digital service agreement to review and sign, and an invoice for your first session. You’ll select your preferred contact method (Teams/Zoom/WhatsApp; video, audio, or text).

In our first session, we will: 1. Confirm your understanding of the agreement and the limits of confidentiality. 2. Clarify what counselling is—and isn’t—and discuss your expectations. 3. Explore what brings you to therapy and agree realistic, achievable goals. 4. Check in on how you’re feeling as we close and outline next steps.

The first session can feel daunting; the pace is yours. You can ask questions at any time, take breaks, or end the session early. Your autonomy is central—you choose what to share and when.

10) Emergencies & Crisis Support

Therapy is not an emergency service. If you are at imminent risk or in crisis, please contact 999, attend A&E, or use your local Crisis Team. You can also contact Samaritans (116 123, 24/7). We can discuss additional crisis planning as needed.

11) Professional Standards & Complaints

I work in accordance with the Íø±¬ÃÅ Ethical Framework and receive regular supervision and CPD.

Íø±¬ÃÅ Membership No: 00770912

Statement: Working within the Íø±¬ÃÅ Ethical Framework.

If you have concerns, please raise them with me directly so we can address them together. If unresolved, I can share details of the Íø±¬ÃÅ complaints process.

12) Agreement

By booking, you confirm that you: - Understand the above terms, including confidentiality limits, fees, and cancellation policy; - Consent to online delivery via your chosen platform; and - Will update me if your contact details or preferences change.

A signed copy of this agreement and payment receipts will be provided by email.