Privacy Policy

A legal disclaimer

1. Confidentiality

During the course of counselling, you will be providing personal information. Please be assured that confidentiality is a key principle in this process, and your privacy is protected under the following guidelines:

Anonymous Notes: All session notes are anonymous, and no identifying information is included. These notes are stored digitally using a secure, online platform.
Secure Storage: Your contact details are kept separate from the session notes, ensuring that personal information cannot be connected to counselling records.
Confidential and Ethical Use of Data: All data collected during counselling is stored securely and used only in a safe and ethical manner, in full compliance with the EU General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR) May 2018 and the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) regulations.

2. Exceptions to Confidentiality

While confidentiality is maintained in most circumstances, there are certain exceptions where disclosure of information may be required to protect your safety or others. These exceptions include:

Disclosure of Illegal Activity: If there is evidence or suspicion of illegal activity, I am required to report it to the relevant authorities.
Safety of a Minor: If a minor is at risk or in danger, I am obligated to take steps to protect their safety, which may involve sharing relevant information with appropriate parties.
Supervision: To ensure the best possible service, I engage in regular professional supervision with other experienced counselors. In these sessions, your personal details are kept to a minimum to protect your identity. The purpose of supervision is to support my professional development and to ensure that I am providing the highest level of care to all clients.
Risk of Harm to Yourself or Others: If there is a risk of harm to yourself or others, I may need to disclose information to prevent harm and ensure the safety of everyone involved.

3. Data Protection and Storage

I am committed to ensuring that your data is stored safely and securely. All personal and counselling information is stored in compliance with data protection laws. This includes using secure digital platforms for storing notes and records, with access limited to authorized individuals only.

4. Your Rights

You have the right to access your personal data at any time and request corrections or updates to your information. You also have the right to withdraw consent for the use of your data, although this may affect the continuation of the counselling service.

5. Code of Conduct

As a counsellor, I adhere to the British Psychological Society (BPS) Code of Ethics and Conduct to ensure that I maintain the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and ethical practice. The key principles of this code include:

Respect for the Rights and Dignity of Persons: I strive to create a safe, respectful environment where your privacy and autonomy are fully respected.
Competence: I commit to providing services within my area of expertise and ensure that I am continually developing my professional skills through regular training and supervision.
Responsibility: I recognize my responsibility to the client, the profession, and the wider community, ensuring that my conduct is in line with ethical standards and promotes the well-being of those I serve.
Integrity: I am committed to honesty and transparency in all aspects of my practice, including maintaining confidentiality, and working in a way that promotes trust.
Beneficence: I aim to promote your well-being and work collaboratively with you to support positive change. I will use my skills, knowledge, and training to assist you in the best possible way.
Non-Maleficence: I am committed to doing no harm. If I believe that I cannot offer the necessary support, I will refer you to an appropriate professional.

In addition, I am bound by the Ethical Guidelines for Counselling Psychologists and follow the best practices outlined by the BPS, including maintaining clear boundaries and ensuring that all interactions are safe, professional, and non-exploitative.