Counselling Policies
Confidentiality
All sessions are confidential and your privacy is respected. There are rare exceptions where I may need to break confidentiality — for example, if there is serious risk of harm to yourself or others, or where I am legally required to disclose information. If possible, I will always discuss this with you first.
Data Protection & GDPR
As a registered data controller, I handle your personal data in line with the UK GDPR and ICO regulations. I store minimal information securely, only what is necessary for our work together. You have the right to access, amend, or request deletion of your records. I may store your contact details on my mobile phone, protected by password and encryption, to communicate with you about sessions. I do not use your contact details for any other purpose and delete them when no longer required. Email communication is encrypted and handled in line with UK GDPR standards; however, clients are advised not to share sensitive personal information via email. You can read my full Privacy Notice here, which outlines how I store and collect your data in more detail.
Session Notes & Record-Keeping
I keep brief anonymised notes to support the therapeutic process. These are securely stored and retained for up to 7 years in accordance with BACP guidance. You can request access to your notes at any time.
Cancellations & Missed Sessions
Please give at least 24 hours’ notice to cancel or reschedule a session. Cancellations with less than 24 hours' notice may incur a full session fee unless due to emergency. Consistent missed appointments may result in us reviewing whether the work can continue.
Payments
Payment for counselling sessions is taken in advance via the booking system. You will receive confirmation once a booking is made.
Communication
Outside of sessions, communication is limited to practical matters like scheduling. I do not offer counselling via text or email. In case of crisis or emergency, please contact your GP or relevant emergency services.
To support your confidentiality, I use an encrypted email service for all counselling-related communication. You can contact me securely at:
Please allow unto 2 working days for a reply.
Working Ethically
I am a student member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) and work in accordance with their Ethical Framework. I receive regular supervision to ensure safe and ethical practice.
Ending Therapy
You can end therapy at any time. Ideally, we agree on an ending together, allowing space to reflect and process. I will not end therapy without discussion, except in rare circumstances where continuation is no longer appropriate or ethical.
Complaints
If you are unhappy with any aspect of our work together, I encourage you to raise this with me directly so we can address it in a respectful and constructive way.
If you feel unable to resolve the issue with me, you have the right to escalate the complaint to the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP).
More information on how to do this can be found at www.bacp.co.uk