In compliance with the 2018 legislation, I want to assure you that I am fully committed to adhering to the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). The collection and storage of your personal data serve important purposes. During your initial appointment, I will request certain personal information to facilitate ongoing communication. Additionally, in the unlikely event of an emergency, having your data enables me to contact your doctor or next of kin promptly. Please rest assured that your privacy and the security of your data are of the utmost importance to me.

As part of my business operations, it may be necessary for me to retain certain statistical information. To ensure the security and confidentiality of your data, please note the following information regarding data storage:

• Data Storage: The information you provide is stored on a password-protected system, and individual files are also password protected. Handwritten personal information is kept in a locked filing cabinet.

• Anonymised Session Notes: Any notes I take during our sessions are anonymised, meaning identifiable information is kept separately from the session notes. These anonymised notes are stored on a password-protected system.

• Data Retention: Hard copy forms and notes will be securely destroyed three years after completing therapy. Similarly, all digital information will be permanently deleted three years after completing therapy.

• Phone Number Storage: If I store your phone number on my device, it will be saved using first names only to maintain confidentiality.

Confidentiality Policy

Rest assured that all sessions and information pertaining to you will be treated with the strictest confidentiality. I will not disclose any identifiable information about you to any third party. However, it is important to note that there are certain limits to confidentiality, which include the following circumstances:

• Risk to Yourself: If you present a risk to yourself, I may need to share relevant information with appropriate professionals, such as your doctor or emergency services, to ensure your safety and well-being.

• Risk to Others: If you present a risk to someone else, I have a legal and ethical obligation to take necessary steps to protect that individual. This may involve sharing pertinent information with the appropriate authorities or individuals involved to ensure safety.

Please understand that these measures are in place to prioritise your safety and the safety of others.

Whenever possible, my intention is to have an open and collaborative discussion with you about any concerns that may arise, and together, explore strategies to ensure safety. However, there may be situations where immediate action is necessary to prioritise safety as the primary concern.

I am a registered member of both the United Kingdom Psychotherapy Council (UKCP) and the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). As a professional, I am committed to upholding the ethical guidelines set forth by these organisations. These guidelines serve as a framework to ensure that I provide services in an ethical and responsible manner, prioritising your well-being and adhering to professional standards. If you have any questions or would like further information about the ethical guidelines I follow, please feel free to discuss them with me.

I engage in regular supervision with a senior practitioner who also adheres to the ethical frameworks of either the UKCP and/or BACP. This supervision is essential to ensure the highest standards of practice, support, and continuous professional development. Please note that any information shared during supervision is anonymised to protect your confidentiality and privacy.

As a client, it is important for you to be aware of your rights. You have the right to access and know what information I have on record about you. If you would like to request access to your files, please submit your request in writing. Kindly allow up to 20 days for me to respond to your request.

If you have any further questions or concerns regarding your rights or the handling of your information, please feel free to discuss them with me.