Privacy Policy

Privacy Policy

Effective Date: 17/7/25
Practice Name: Birch Phoenix Counselling - Nicola Bonell
Contact: birchphoenixcounselling@gmail.com

1. Introduction

Your privacy is very important to me. This policy explains how I collect, use, and protect your personal information in line with the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR).

2. Information I Collect

I collect the following information directly from you:

• Full name
• Contact details (email address, phone number)
• Emergency contact information
• Basic health and wellbeing information relevant to your therapy

3. How Your Information is Used

Your information is collected to:

• Provide counselling services safely and effectively
• Maintain contact regarding appointments
• Fulfil legal obligations as a counselling practitioner
• Take appropriate action in emergencies or situations involving risk of harm

4. Lawful Basis for Processing

Under the UK GDPR, I process your data under the following lawful bases:

• Contract: To provide counselling sessions as agreed.
• Legal obligation: To comply with laws and ethical obligations.
• Vital interests: To protect your life or the life of another (e.g., in emergencies).

5. Confidentiality & When Information May Be Shared

All sessions are confidential. However, I may need to break confidentiality in the following situations:

• If you disclose intent to harm yourself or others
• If required by law (e.g. court order or safeguarding concerns)

In such cases, I may share information with your GP, emergency services, or safeguarding authorities. I will aim to discuss this with you first, where possible.

6. Data Storage and Security

Your personal information is securely stored in the following ways:

• Digitally scanned and saved on a password-protected laptop
• Files are kept confidential and access is restricted to the practitioner only

7. Data Retention

Client records are retained for seven years from the date of your last session, in line with professional standards. After this period, your information will be securely deleted or destroyed.

8. Your Rights

Under the UK GDPR, you have the right to:

• Access the information I hold about you
• Request corrections to your data
• Request erasure (in certain circumstances)
• Object to processing
• Request data portability
• Lodge a complaint with the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO)

For more information or to make a request, please contact me directly at birchphoenixcounselling@gmail.com.

9. Changes to This Policy

This policy may be updated occasionally to reflect changes in legal or ethical requirements. Any significant updates will be communicated to you.