1. Purpose of the Podcast This podcast features real couples engaging in a one-time therapy session facilitated by Jeff Shepherd, Registered Psychotherapist. The session is recorded and shared with the following 2 intentions: First, to reduce stigma and secrecy around seeking mental health support by allowing the public to witness a real couples therapy session, and to offer meaningful insights and psychoeducation that may support individuals and couples in their own lives and relationships. Second, to contribute to therapist education and training, as observing real therapeutic conversations is a powerful and often underused tool for developing clinical skill, empathy, and nuance in practice. ⸻ 2. Integrity of the Session Jeff facilitates the session with a focus on the integrity, safety, quality and emotional depth of the session, not its entertainment value. For this reason, there is no guarantee your session will be shared with the public. Participants are not entering into a formal psychotherapy contract with Jeff, and they are not considered clients. The podcast episode is a one-time session, unless a separate agreement has been established. Jeff does not provide follow-up psychotherapy services, case management, or continued support beyond this recording. Referrals to licensed therapy providers (including free and sliding scale options) are offered upon request. ⸻ 3. Consent, Confidentiality & Identification Participants will use a pseudonym agreed upon before recording, and full anonymity cannot be guaranteed due to voice and story context. Note that Jeff will prioritize anonymity during the session and editing process. For example, home towns, current cities, employment details and ages won't be requested on air, or they will be modified when possible. The session will be recorded, edited, and publicly released via audio platforms such as (and not limited to) Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Youtube, Amazon Music, etc. Couples therapy can be a deeply emotional and vulnerable process. When therapeutically appropriate, the session may explore complex themes such as past trauma, grief, family of origin dynamics, adverse experiences, and other sensitive topics. By choosing to participate, participants acknowledge that moments of discomfort may arise. Participants should feel emotionally prepared and capable of engaging with difficult material. Support will be provided throughout the session by Jeff to ensure the process remains grounded, respectful, and emotionally safe. ⸻ 4. No Revenue Sharing Participants understand and agree that: Their participation is voluntary and unpaid. There will be no revenue sharing or financial compensation from podcast downloads, ads, sponsorships, or any other income generated from the episode or related content. All media rights and proceeds are retained solely by Jeff and the podcast team. ⸻ 5. Episode Release & Discretion The final decision to publish or withhold an episode rests solely with Jeff and the podcast team. Participants may request that the episode not be published only in cases of serious emotional harm, safety concerns, or retraumatization. Requests based on general discomfort or a "change of heart" do not guarantee removal. Please thoughtfully consider the time, energy, emotional labour, and financial investment made by Jeff and the podcast team in producing this experience. If you believe you may not want the episode to be published, or if you feel the need to hear the final version before agreeing to its release, we kindly ask that you do not sign this agreement or move forward with participation. This podcast is built on mutual trust, transparency, and consent. You should feel confident, ready, and enthusiastic to share your story with the public. If there is hesitation, we fully respect that — and encourage you to wait until you’re certain. ⸻ 6. Media Release Participants grant Jeff Shepherd, RP, and affiliated entities the irrevocable right to use, distribute, and modify the recorded material for any lawful use including but not limited to streaming, broadcast, advertising, and promotional materials. ⸻