For Therapists

Ethical Guidance for Therapists in Private Practice

Practice-Informed Resources for Clarity, Confidence & Professional Consistency

Establishing a private practice involves far more than conducting therapy sessions. Therapists must navigate service agreements, intake processes, clinical documentation, professional boundaries, cancellations, safeguarding considerations, and complex client presentations, often without immediate collegial support.

This resource package brings together practical guidance and professionally structured templates designed to support therapists in developing clarity, consistency, and ethical confidence within private practice work.

The materials reflect real-world clinical realities rather than theoretical ideals and are intended to reduce uncertainty while strengthening professional structure.

What This Resource Supports

  • Clear professional boundaries and expectations
    • Confidence in client agreements and intake processes
    • Ethical and client-protective documentation practices
    • Greater consistency in clinical record keeping
    • Calm navigation of complex or sensitive disclosures
    • Professional organisation of private practice systems

Included in This Resource Package

Professional Guidance Document

✔ Eight-page guidance document
Practice-informed considerations for ethical, professional, and sustainable private practice work.

Client Agreements & Intake Templates

✔ Adult Service Agreement
✔ Couples Service Agreement
✔ Teen Service Agreement

✔ Adult Intake Assessment
✔ Couples Intake Assessment
✔ Teen Intake Assessment

✔ Children’s First Statement Template

Practice Structure & Policy Coverage

The included service agreements and templates are designed to support transparency, clarity, and professional consistency. They address core areas commonly required in private practice, including:

  • Confidentiality and professional boundaries
    • Payment processes and payment in advance
    • Cancellation policies and missed sessions
    • Appointment bookings and scheduling expectations
    • Reporting considerations and safeguarding responsibilities
    • Client feedback and complaints procedures

These documents aim to reduce ambiguity, support informed consent, and establish clear professional expectations from the outset of therapy.

Clinical Notes Samples (PIP Format)

✔ Standard Session Notes Example
✔ Crisis Intervention Session Example
✔ Sexual Abuse / Sexual Assault Disclosure Example

Designed to support concise, factual, and ethically mindful documentation practices.

Website Policy Templates (Editable)

✔ Privacy Statement
✔ Cookies Policy
✔ Terms of Service

Suitable for adaptation within your own private practice website.

Legal & Data Protection Considerations

These documents have been developed with awareness of professional practice standards, ethical responsibilities, and data protection principles relevant to private practice in Ireland, including GDPR considerations.

They are intended to provide a strong structural and ethical foundation for therapists operating within Irish practice contexts. In many cases, the templates can also be adapted for use in other jurisdictions, though minor adjustments may be required to reflect local legislation, professional body requirements, or individual business arrangements.

Practitioners remain responsible for ensuring that all documentation and policies align with their governing body, legal obligations, and data protection responsibilities.

Who This Resource Is For

This package is particularly suited to:

  • Newly qualified therapists
    • Pre-accredited clinicians
    • Therapists establishing private practice
    • Practitioners refining documentation and agreements
    • Clinicians seeking greater structural consistency

Format & Access

  • Immediate digital download upon purchase
    • Fully editable templates
    • Designed for practical clinical use
    • Lifetime use within your own practice

Professional Responsibility Notice

These materials provide general professional guidance and templates intended for educational and organisational support. They do not replace clinical supervision, legal advice, or professional training.

Practitioners remain responsible for exercising their own professional judgement and ensuring compliance with their governing body, legal obligations, and relevant legislation.

About the Author

Anita Lynch is a psychotherapist and Clinical Director with over ten years of clinical experience. Her work has included private practice, research publication, teaching, and the development of therapeutic services. She is the founder of The Misneach Centre in Ireland.

Investment

€149
One-time purchase • Immediate access