Psychotherapy and the Law

This book provides an accessible and informed outline of the law relating to counselling and psychotherapy, for use by trainees, therapists, trainers, supervisors and managers. At a time when concerns about record keeping, confidentiality and litigation are rising, this book provides an essential and user-friendly point of reference for practitioners. Based on a question and answer format, the book covers key areas such as legal context of therapy, liability, data protection, training, research and supervision.

In this way, the book addresses the very real practice concerns now facing therapists, such as implications of keeping records, using contracts, and facing complaint or legal action. Limits of confidentiality are covered, with regard to child abuse, duty to warn others and working with clients who self-harm or use drugs. This is an essential source for reference and professional updating, written by three experts in the field.