Privacy Policy

What is GDPR and how does it affect me?

UK GDPR, or the UK General Data Protection Regulation, is a law that protects personal data and privacy in the UK. For counselling clients, this means that their sensitive information—like identifiable information, health details and personal stories —must be handled carefully and kept confidential. Counsellors must get explicit consent before collecting or sharing any data, ensuring clients can access their information and ask for corrections. This helps build trust in the counselling relationship, as clients know their privacy is respected and their data is secure. I am committed to complying with the terms of UK GDPR and to the responsible and secure use of your data.

How long will you hold my information for?

As a counsellor within the UK, we are typically advised to keep client records for a minimum of 5 years after the last session, particularly if the client is an adult. This allows for any potential issues or inquiries that may arise post-therapy. If the client is a minor (those under the age of 18), records should usually be retained until the client turns 25 years old. In the January following the above retention scales, I will delete your records. In cases where there are legal considerations, I may be required to hold your data for a longer period.

Personal data rights.

You have the right to request information held about you or to make necessary corrections. Should you wish to access your information, please email claire@argylecounselling.co.uk. You can also email this address should you have any concerns about my use of your data.

What if I don’t want my records to be held for that long?

Under UK GDPR you can make a request in writing to claire@argylecounselling.co.uk for all your records to be deleted, in this instance I would refer this request to my insurer for their approval. Once approved all your paper records would be shredded and any electronic data would be permanently deleted from the devices. Your email requesting the deletion of data must be retained by me.

Why do you need to record this information?

The information I collect from you is done for several important reasons:

1. Assessment and Understanding: Gathering information about a client’s background, experiences, and current situation helps the counsellor understand their needs, issues, and goals. This information is crucial for developing effective treatment plans and interventions.

2. Establishing Rapport: Knowing more about a client helps build a trusting relationship, which is fundamental to effective therapy. It allows the counsellor to show empathy and tailor their approach to the individual.

3. Creating a Safe Environment: Collecting information about clients’ needs, preferences, and potential triggers helps counsellors create a safe and supportive environment where clients can express themselves freely.

4. Monitoring Progress: Keeping records of client information allows counsellors to track progress over time. This can help assess the effectiveness of the counselling process and make necessary adjustments.

5. Legal and Ethical Obligations: Counsellors in the UK are required to maintain records for legal reasons, as well as to uphold ethical standards set by professional bodies. This includes maintaining confidentiality and ensuring the protection of client data.

6. Supervision and Professional Development: Confidential information may be discussed in supervision settings (with utmost confidentiality) to enhance the counsellor’s skills and ensure that clients receive the best possible care.

7. Crisis Management: In cases where a client may be at risk of harm to themselves or others, having detailed information may assist counsellors in responding appropriately and quickly to address safety concerns.

8. Statistical and Research Purposes: Aggregate data might be used, with consent, for research and service improvement, helping to advance the field of counselling and psychotherapy.

Overall, the collection of client information is vital for effective counselling practice, ensuring that clients receive appropriate, individualised support while adhering to professional and ethical standards. I will not share your details with any other person or organisation without your knowledge and permission unless there is a legal requirement, as stated in the counselling contract.

What lengths are made to ensure my information is held securely?

I will take all reasonable precautions to prevent the loss, misuse, or alteration of information you provide to me. Hard copy documents are all stored in a locked cabinet in a locked room/building, the phone has a passcode protecting text messages, the email account requires a username and password, and the laptop is password protected and has the latest anti-virus software installed.

Is what we discussed kept confidential?

Yes, everything we talk about during our sessions is strictly confidential between you and me. However, as stated in the counselling contract, there are exceptions such as a risk of serious harm to you or someone else, an involvement with or knowledge of illegal activities like terrorism, drug trafficking or money laundering, or if I am legally obligated to disclose. Additionally, all counsellors are required to attend regular supervision to ensure our work continues to be safe, ethical and effective. In supervision aspects of our work may be discussed but no identifiable information will be used. Please also be reassured, all supervisors are bound by the same ethics and confidentiality rules as I am.

Changes to this privacy policy.

Argyle Counselling reserves the right to change this privacy policy as We may deem necessary from time to time or as may be required by law. Any changes will be immediately posted on the Website, and you are deemed to have accepted the terms of the privacy policy on your first use of the Website following the alterations. Please direct any questions you have to us by email at claire@argylecounselling.co.uk