Privacy Policy
As a counsellor I am committed to maintaining your privacy and protecting your data in line with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). This page explains what personal infomation I collect, why I collect it, how it’s used and how it’s kept safe.
What Information I Collect and Why:
To provide safe and effective counselling, I collect certain personal details. When you first get in touch, I collect your name and contact information so we can communicate about appointments. Once counselling begins, I also collect your date of birth, address, and, if necessary, an emergency contact.
Throughout our work together, I may keep a record of our communications, such as emails or messages related to your sessions. I also take brief, secure notes after each session. These notes include the date and a short summary of what we discussed. They are stored electronically and are kept separate from any identifying details like your name or contact number to protect your confidentiality. You can request to see your notes at any time.
After counselling ends, I retain your records for 7 years in line with professional and insurance guidelines. For clients under the age of 18, records are kept for 7 years after the individual turns 18.
This information helps me support you effectively, stay in contact, and meet the professional and legal responsibilities expected of me. I only collect what’s necessary for our work together, and I handle all personal information with care and respect.
Legal Basis for Using Your Information:
Under the UK GDPR, I must have a legal basis for processing your information. These include:
Contract – to provide the counselling you have requested
Legal obligation – to comply with safeguarding or legal requirements
Legitimate interest – to run my practice responsibly
Consent – especially when working with sensitive information (e.g., therapy notes)
When Information Might Be Shared:
What you share in counselling is confidential. However, there are some exceptions where I may need to share information, such as in supervision (shared anonymously to ensure safe and ethical practice), if I believe that you or someone else is at serious risk of harm and if I am required to by law, such as by court order. Wherever possible, I will talk to you first before sharing any information.
Your Rights:
You have the right to know how your personal data is used. You can request:
A copy of the information I hold about you
Corrections to any inaccurate information
Deletion of your data (in certain cases)
Limits on how your data is used
To withdraw consent if that’s the legal basis being used
If you would like further information please let me know. You can contact me via email at nadiamukithcounselling@gmail.com or by phone on 07440 595 897.