Privacy Policy
This policy explains the information that may be collected by me, why I need it, and how I look after it. I collect your personal data directly from you:
• When you first contact me to enquire about therapy
• During our initial assessment call or session
• Throughout our therapy sessions together
• Via email or telephone communications between sessions
• Payment details
I do not collect personal data about you from third parties unless you have given explicit consent for this, such as when a referral is made through your workplace with your knowledge.
Why I store your data
I collect and use your personal information so that I can provide you with therapy and we can keep in touch whilst working together.
Professional obligations
As a BACP member, I am required to discuss my clinical work in supervision. This is an important part of maintaining safe and effective practice. However, your identity is always protected: I do not share your full name or any identifying details with my supervisor. My
supervisor is bound by their own professional confidentiality obligations.
Who else may see your data
Your information may be seen by:
• My supervisor — anonymised material only, with no identifying details
• Service providers:
Wix — the platform that hosts my website
Zoom — online sessions platform provider
• Statutory authorities — only where I am legally required to share information
When I might need to break confidentiality
Confidentiality is central to our work together, but there are rare situations where I may need to share information without your consent:
• If I believe there is a serious risk of harm to you or someone else
• If there are safeguarding concerns involving a child or vulnerable adult
• If I receive a court order requiring me to disclose information
Wherever possible, I will always try to discuss this with you first.
How long I keep your records
I keep your records for 5 years after our last session, in line with my standard professional indemnity insurance requirements. After this period, paper records are securely destroyed and electronic records are permanently deleted.
Know your rights
You have rights regarding your personal data, including knowing what information I have on record about you. If you are unhappy with how I have handled your information, you can make a complaint.
Making a complaint
Under the Data (Use and Access) Act 2025, you have the right to raise any concerns about how your data is handled - the way personal data is collected, used, stored or processed. You can contact me directly at andrea@andrealawrencecounselling.com. I will acknowledge complaints within 30 days of receipt. I will investigate all data related complaints without undue delay. I will keep the complainant updated and informed of the outcome when the investigation is completed.
If you remain unsatisfied, you can complain to the Information Commissioners Office (ICO):
• Website: ico.org.uk
• Telephone: 0303 123 1113