Privacy Notice

Counselling Services

Introduction

 

This Privacy Notice explains how I collect, use, store, and protect your personal information when you engage with my counselling services. I am committed to handling your data with care, transparency, and respect.

 

Your privacy is central to the trust we build together.

 

Who I Am

 

Deborah Dean
Email address – Debbie@epilepsynurse.org

Mobile number – 07770370205

I am the Data Controller for the personal information you share with me.

 

What Information I Collect

 

I collect and process the following types of information:

Personal and Contact Details

• Name

• Address

• Email address

• Phone number

• Emergency contact details

Health and Background Information

• Relevant medical or psychological history

• Information you choose to share during sessions

• GP details (with your consent)

Administrative Information

• Session notes (brief, factual, securely stored)

• Invoices, payments, and financial records

• Communication records (emails, messages)

 

Why I Collect Your Information

 

Your information is collected for the following purposes:

• To provide safe, effective counselling

• To communicate with you about appointments

• To maintain accurate clinical records

• To meet legal, ethical, and professional obligations

• To ensure your safety and wellbeing

• To manage payments and accounting

 

Legal Basis for Processing

 

I process your data under the following lawful bases:

• Contract: To deliver the counselling services you request

• Legitimate Interests: To maintain professional records and ensure service quality

• Legal Obligation: For safeguarding, tax, and regulatory requirements

• Consent: For contacting your GP or other professionals, only when necessary and agreed

 

How Your Information Is Stored

 

Your information is stored securely using encrypted, password‑protected, or biometric-protected systems. Paper records (if used) are kept in locked storage. Only I have access to your information unless disclosure is required by law.

 

Confidentiality and When Information May Be Shared

 

Everything you share in counselling is confidential. Information will only be shared in the following circumstances:

• You give explicit consent for information to be shared

• I am legally required to disclose information (e.g., court order)

• There is a serious risk of harm to you or someone else

• Safeguarding concerns involving a child or vulnerable adult

• I discuss my work in professional supervision (your identity is protected)

I will always aim to discuss any necessary disclosure with you first unless doing so would increase risk.

 

How Long Your Information Is Kept

 

Clinical records are kept for 7 years after our work ends, in line with professional guidelines. For clients under 18, records are kept until they reach age 25. After this period, all data is securely destroyed.

 

Your Rights

 

Under UK GDPR, you have the right to:

• Access your personal data

• Request corrections to inaccurate information

• Request deletion of your data (in certain circumstances)

• Restrict or object to processing

• Request transfer of your data to another provider

• Withdraw consent at any time (where consent is the basis for processing)

To exercise these rights, contact me using the details above.

 

Complaints

 

If you have concerns about how your data is handled, please contact me directly. You also have the right to raise a complaint with the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO). Helpline number: 0303 123 1113

Website: https://www.ico.org.uk/make-a-complaint

 

 

Updates to This Notice

 

This Privacy Notice may be updated periodically to reflect changes in legislation or practice. The most current version will always be available on request.

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