It gives me hope that there are people out there willing to make arrangements like this to give you access to help that you might not otherwise be able to get. It sounds to me like you have gone through sources that you trust, and this psychologist is probably legitimate. And I think it's also a good thing that you will be able to help him too. That seems empowering to me. I hope that he is like a grandfather to you.

There is some risk involved in arrangements like this, because dual relationships and bartering are considered "boundary crossings." People have different opinions about the appropriateness of boundary crossings, but there are strong cases made for situations when it is appropriate. My opinion is that when boundaries are too rigid, therapists put their image and unwillingness to be genuine and to risk something for their clients' benefit ahead of what the client really needs from them. They choose their own security first. So, therapists who are willing to risk an appropriate boundary crossing (appropriate meaning that it is beneficial in some way to the client, and not self-serving) have my admiration because they show that they really do care.

Do make sure that someone knows where you are though, and that you can get help in case anything feels inappropriate to you. I don't think that will happen, but that is the concern side. Therapists who are willing to cross too many boundaries, or who do so for their own benefit in some way, are not acting ethically. I have more information on this topic if you are interested - some links to articles, as well as a paper that I wrote about boundary crossings. All rather academic though.

I wouldn't worry about your records being in the health system. Sometimes there are advantages to not being in the system too. If anyone needs to know about your treatment, you can tell them or get records from your psychologist at that time.

Rap