During therapy sessions sometimes clients will disclose that they are at risk, either from harm to themselves (suicidal ideation), harm to others, or harm to them by others. When I hear such information, it is crucial to share this and follow official safeguarding procedures. I am a qualified Designated Safeguarding Lead and will follow the Local Authority protocol and policy to make sure that all agencies involved with the client are made aware of their level of risk and report to the authorities is there is significant risk shared. This process is always done with the knowledge of the child or young person and parent/guardian, unless it is unsafe to do so.
Multi Agency Working
If a client’s welfare involves support from their education, social and health care system, it is important that their psychotherapy is joined up to their multi agency team. This can help all agents to understand the child or young person in their wider context. Psychotherapy formulation can also inform all agents as to the level of continued social care support required. Attending Multi-Disciplinary Team meetings or preparing reports for such meetings is often part of this process.
Referrals for Further Support
It is sometimes important in therapy to understand areas of the client’s presenting behaviour which need support outside of my ability or remit. Therefore, it is sometimes necessary to refer a client to a service which is better suited to their needs. (E.g., GP referral, Psychiatrist assessment). This onwards referral process / preparation of appropriate written material, would be done in conjunction with the client, parent/guardian, school, social workers, and any other appropriate agencies working with the child or young person.
Providing Reports to Parents/Guardians, Schools, GPs or Other Organisations
Psychotherapy reports explain how the client’s presenting issues are currently impacting them, my formulation and understanding of this, and recommendations for the client and how best to support them in their wider context.
Written psychotherapy reports can be made available at any time during the therapy should you require it. More regular reports / notes for teachers can also be made available for assisting staff to understand the pupil’s behaviour in class, and how best to support their needs.