Privacy Policy

As a BACP registered counsellor and psychotherapist, I am required to work within the BACP Ethical Framework and adhere to professional standards regarding confidentiality, record keeping and the protection of personal information.

I, Charlotte Clements, am the data controller and data processor for any personal information that you provide. I am registered with the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) and my registration reference is ZB482303.

What information do I collect?

I may collect personal information such as your name, contact details, emergency contact details, and information you provide when making an enquiry or during our work together.

Why do I collect this information?

I collect this information in order to:

  • Respond to enquiries.

  • Provide counselling and psychotherapy services.

  • Contact you regarding appointments where necessary.

  • Maintain appropriate records relating to our work together.

  • Meet my professional, ethical and legal obligations.

How is your information stored?

I keep your information secure and confidential. Electronic records are stored on a secure system called Bacpac. Any paper records are stored in a locked filing cabinet.

Will your information be shared?

Your information will remain confidential unless:

  • You give permission for information to be shared.

  • I am concerned about your safety or the safety of another person.

  • Disclosure is required by law, for example in relation to safeguarding concerns, terrorism, money laundering, or a court order.

Where possible, I will discuss any disclosure with you beforehand.

I have also made arrangements for another trusted professional to have one-off emergency access to client contact details in the unlikely event that I become incapacitated and am unable to contact clients myself.

How long is information kept?

Records are retained for up to six years following the end of our work together, after which they are securely destroyed.

Your rights

You have the right to request access to the personal information I hold about you. You may ask for inaccurate information to be corrected and, where appropriate, request that information be deleted.

Complaints

If you have a concern about how your personal information has been handled, please contact me, in writing, in the first instance.

I will investigate your concern and respond as soon as reasonably possible.

If you remain dissatisfied, you have the right to make a complaint to the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO).