Terms and Conditions
Please read carefully before booking a counselling session with us
How our practice works
Mindful Connections offers online counselling for adult individuals and couples. Lounette Els is an ASCHP registered Specialist Wellness Counsellor (SWC20/790). The ASCHP (ID 984) is a SAQA (South African Qualifications Authority) recognised professional body with listed designations on the National Qualifications Framework (Act 67 of 2008). The ASCHP provides membership to counsellors who work in the non-statutory domain, i.e. who are not psychologists or HPCSA registered professionals.
A Specialist Wellness Counsellor is a member with an applicable postgraduate qualification on NQF level 8 and at least 100 hours of practical experience. Specialist Wellness Counsellors serve to enhance the total wellbeing of their clients by making use of a systems approach to counselling – working towards achieving wholeness within the integrative unity of body, mind, and spirit. The level of counselling is that of primary health care. Thus, counsellors are required to refer clients to medical and psychological professionals if they identify needs that require specialised intervention such as mood, personality and anxiety disorders and health related problems that require medical attention.
For more information: https://www.aschp.net/designations.html
It is important to note that sessions are not claimable with medical aid. The Company follows a cash-based practice and online counselling bookings are secured once Proof of Payment (POP) has been received. The Website uses a secure payment portal and clients can also secure payments directly through the counsellor – invoices and receipt of payment will be provided.
Confidentiality
Confidentiality is an essential part of all counselling. It underpins the client’s sense of safety and trust and contributes to making the counsellor-client relationship different from any other. The Company holds all client records (session notes and personal information) securely and will ensure confidentiality in the treatment of any information held about its clients. All information obtained and held is solely for the purpose of maintaining effective therapeutic management.
Furthermore, all information will be kept confidential unless the client and counsellor agree to discuss something with a third party (possible referral). All clients are required to read and sign a consent form before services are offered. The few reasons for breaking confidentiality are detailed in the form and can also be discussed with the counsellor in the first session should clarity be required.
Anti-discrimination policy
The Company is strongly committed to anti-discrimination. It values difference and diversity and does not discriminate on the grounds of age, gender and gender identity, sexual preference or orientation, marital/partnership status, religion, race, colour, national origin, disability, heritage, or political belief.
Cancellation, Invoices and missed session policy
If for any reason you are unable to attend your appointment, please let us know as soon as possible. The required notice for cancellation is 24 hours. Since bookings are secured once payment has been received, a refund will be made should it be requested from the client within the cancellation policy timeline. With adequate advanced notice, where possible, you may be offered an alternative appointment. Payments for bookings are required to be made 24 hours before the session date and time to ensure your booking is confirmed and to avoid missing your desired timeslot.
