Privacy Policy

Introduction

I am committed to protecting your privacy and handling your personal data in accordance with UK data protection law.

This policy explains how I collect, use, store and protect your information, as well as your rights in relation to it.

What Information I Collect

I will collect the following information:

  • Personal details (your name, address, date of birth, phone number, email address and GP details)

  • Emergency contact information

  • Information shared during sessions, including sensitive personal data relating to your health and wellbeing

This information is provided directly by you.

How Your Information Is Used

Your information is used to:

  • Provide counselling services

  • Maintain accurate records of our work together

  • Ensure your safety and wellbeing

The lawful basis for processing your data may include:

  • Contract (our counselling agreement)

  • Legitimate interest (record keeping)

  • Provision of health-related services (special category data).  

How Your Information Is Stored

Your information is stored securely using password-protected systems and appropriate security measures.

This may include secure digital systems used to manage appointments, notes and client records. Access to your data is restricted to me only.

Confidentiality

All information shared in sessions is confidential. However, there are limits to confidentiality where there is a risk of serious harm to yourself or others, or where disclosure is required by law.

I may also discuss aspects of my work in professional supervision to support safe and effective practice. In these situations, your identity will not be disclosed.

Data Retention

  • Session notes are typically retained for 7 years after therapy ends, in line with professional guidance.

  • Personal contact details are kept only for as long as necessary and are securely deleted when no longer required.

Sharing Information

Your information will not be shared with third parties without your consent, except in the following circumstances:

  • Where there is a risk of serious harm to yourself or others

  • Where disclosure is required by law

  • For professional supervision (where your identity will not be disclosed)

  • For administration and accounting purposes

I may share limited personal information with third-party providers where necessary for administrative purposes, such as payment processing or accounting. This will only include the information required and will not include session content.

I will also keep accounting records for tax purposes, which are retained for the required period of 5 years.

Electronic Communication

When you get in touch through my website, I may collect personal information such as your name, email address, phone number, and any details you choose to include in your message. This information is used solely to respond to your enquiry and to arrange consultations where appropriate.

Your information may be stored securely via Squarespace (which hosts my website) and is only accessed by me.

I will only keep this information for as long as necessary to respond to your enquiry or provide services, after which it will be securely deleted.

I may use email, text message or phone to contact you regarding appointments. You can indicate your preferred method of contact when getting in touch, and I will aim to use this wherever possible.

Email and text messaging are convenient ways to communicate, but they are not always fully secure. I take care to protect your information and will use these methods in line with your preferences.

Clinical Will

In the event of my death or incapacity, arrangements are in place to ensure that your data is managed appropriately.

Further information about how I work will be shared with you before or during our initial sessions.

Your Rights

You have the right to:

  • Access your personal data

  • Request corrections

  • Request deletion (where appropriate)

  • Restrict or object to processing

  • Data portability

I will respond to requests within one month.

Data Controller

Jane Lynette - Jane Lynette Therapy.

ICO Registration Number: ZA610047.

If you have any questions about how your data is handled, please feel free to contact me at: hello@janelynettetherapy.com.