​​How confidential is Art Psychotherapy?

Confidentiality is an important part of the therapeutic relationship. It helps create a space where you can feel safe to talk openly, explore difficult feelings and share experiences without worrying about who else might find out.

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What you share during sessions, including conversations, personal information and artwork, is treated with respect and kept confidential. I will not share details of your therapy with family members, friends, your employer or other professionals without your consent.

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There are, however, some situations where I may need to share information. For example, if I have serious concerns that you or someone else may be at risk of significant harm, or if I am legally required to disclose information. In these circumstances, I may need to contact an appropriate professional or service to help ensure safety.

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If I ever felt that information needed to be shared, I would aim to talk this through with you first, wherever possible, and would only share what was necessary.

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I also have professional responsibilities around keeping appropriate therapy notes and maintaining your privacy. These records are stored securely and handled in accordance with relevant data protection requirements.

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If you have any questions or concerns about confidentiality, you are always welcome to ask. We can talk through what this means in practice before or during our work together.

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Does my GP or employer need to know that I'm having Art Psychotherapy?

No. You do not need a referral from your GP, and neither your GP nor your employer needs to know that you are attending Art Psychotherapy. Seeking therapy is a personal choice, and you are entitled to keep this private.

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I will not contact your GP, employer or other professionals involved in your care without your knowledge and consent, unless there are exceptional circumstances where I have serious concerns about your safety or the safety of someone else.

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At the beginning of therapy, I will ask you for your GP's contact details and some information about any other professionals who may be involved in your care. This is primarily to help ensure that appropriate support can be considered if an emergency or significant concern arises. We would always aim to discuss any need to contact someone else with you beforehand, wherever possible.