It’s important for clients to be aware of what rights protect them during the process, as well as what obligations they can fulfill to promote effective cooperation. This article provides a detailed overview of the rights available to clients and the obligations that ensure the smooth continuation of therapeutic work when adhered to.

Client Rights:

• Right to confidentiality: The most important right for clients in the psychological process is confidentiality. The psychologist cannot share information with a third party without the client's explicit consent. Exceptions may occur if the client's or another person's life is in danger, or in cases of legal obligations (e.g., cases of crime).

• Safe and non-judgmental environment: Clients have the right to participate in therapy in an environment where they feel safe and free from judgment. Psychologists must exhibit a professional and supportive attitude.

• Freedom to choose participation: Clients have the right to interrupt or pause therapy at any time. This can be a temporary or final decision, which must be respected. However, potential risks should be considered, as interrupting the process may hinder therapeutic outcomes. Psychologists are tasked with informing clients about possible consequences of such decisions, but the final decision lies with the client.

• Comprehensive information: Clients have the right to understand which therapeutic methods are used and the objectives they serve. Additionally, they have the right to ask questions about the therapeutic process, including expected outcomes and potential risks.

• Respect and dignity: Clients have the right to be treated with respect and dignity by psychologists, regardless of their background, ethnicity, religion, or sexual orientation. 

Client Obligations:

• Honesty and cooperation: For therapy to be effective, it is important for clients to communicate honestly about their problems, feelings, and thoughts. Cooperation is essential for the success of the therapeutic process.

• Regular participation: Clients are obligated to attend scheduled sessions regularly, as consistency is crucial for the effectiveness of therapy. If unable to attend a session, clients must notify the psychologist in advance.

• Respect towards the professional: Clients must treat the psychologist and the whole process, which the professional guides, with respect. This also applies to behaving appropriately, being attentive, and committed to the therapy.

• Acceptance of boundaries: Clients are obliged to accept the framework of therapeutic sessions, such as the duration, payment terms, and boundaries of the therapeutic relationship. These ensure safe and effective work.

• Responsibility for change: As part of the therapeutic process, clients must take responsibility for changes. The psychologist facilitates recognition and direction, but the actual steps toward change are the client’s task.

• Settlement of service fees
  Clients are obligated to settle the fees for psychological services as specified in the contract. This could be after individual sessions, at predetermined intervals, or based on other agreements. If clients do not settle the fees, it may affect the continuity of services and could have legal consequences.

• Knowledge, adherence, and acceptance of relevant contract provisions: Clients are obligated to be familiar with the terms of the therapeutic contract, including cancellation and rescheduling rules. These guidelines ensure the therapy is effective and runs smoothly for both parties. For instance, if a client does not cancel a session in time, the psychologist may charge a cancellation fee as determined in the contract.

The balance between clients' rights and obligations is a key element for the success of the therapeutic process. During psychological counseling, clients not only need to feel safe and supported but also to participate responsibly in the process of creating their well-being. Properly managed rights and obligations provide clear boundaries for both parties, promoting harmonious and effective therapeutic cooperation.