G.D.P.R STATEMENT

1. CONFIDENTIALITY POLICY

Your privacy and confidentiality are extremely important to this practice.

All information shared in counselling sessions is treated as confidential and will not be disclosed to third parties without your explicit consent, except in the following circumstances:

If there is a serious risk of harm to yourself or others.

If there is suspicion or disclosure of abuse involving a child, vulnerable adult, or safeguarding issue.

If disclosure is required by law or court order.

If I am professionally required to consult with a supervisor (this is done anonymously).

In these situations, only relevant information will be shared and, where possible, this will be discussed with you first.

2. DATA PROTECTION AND G.D.P.R. POLICY

This practice complies with the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR) and the Data Protection Act 2018.

WHAT DATA COLLECTED

The following personal data may be collected and stored:

Name, contact details (email, phone number)

Emergency contact details

Session notes

Assessment forms

Payment records

HOW YOUR DATA IS USED

Your data is used solely for:

Providing counselling services

Managing appointments and communication

Professional record keeping

Your data will never be sold or used for marketing purposes.

HOW YOUR DATA IS STORED

Records are stored securely, either in encrypted digital systems or locked physical storage.

Only the counsellor has access to identifiable client data.

HOW LONG IS YOUR DATA KEPT

Records are kept for 7 years after the end of therapy (or until age 25 for minors), in line with professional guidelines, and then securely destroyed.

YOUR RIGHTS UNDER GDPR

You have the right to:

Access your personal data

Request correction of inaccurate data

Request deletion (where legally possible)

Withdraw consent at any time

Lodge a complaint with the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO)

3. TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF SERVICE APPOINTMENTS

Sessions last [e.g. 50 minutes] and take place [online / in person / hybrid].

CANCELATIONS

A minimum of 24 hours' notice is required for cancellations.

Late cancellations or non-attendance may be charged in full.

Fees & Payment

Fees are agreed in advance.

Payment is due [before / on the day / within X days of session].

PROFESSIONAL BOUNDARIES

This is a professional therapeutic relationship. Contact outside sessions is limited to practical matters such as scheduling.

COMPLAINTS

If you are unhappy with any aspect of the service, please raise it directly with the counsellor. If unresolved, you may follow the formal complaints process via the relevant professional body.

4. CONSENT

By engaging in counselling services, you confirm that:

You have read and understood these policies.

You consent to the collection and processing of your personal data.

You understand the limits of confidentiality.