Privacy notice
This privacy notice supports the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) that took effect on 25th May 2018. I, Vicky Mould, am the data controller and hold registration with the Information Commissioner's Office (reference ZA833777).
I require access to your personal information to either provide my counselling service or determine if my service is appropriate for you. Some of the information I collect and hold is sensitive, such as details relating to your mental health. The lawful basis for processing sensitive info is that counselling falls under a health/social care service.
I have published this privacy notice to outline the information I will gather and what I will do with it.
How do I collect your information?
I may collect your personal information when you contact me through this website, via my practice mobile, or through a therapist directory listing.
When you make an enquiry using the contact form on this website, it is not accessible to the website host, Webhealer, or stored on their system. It does mean you authorise me to contact you back and peruse any information you voluntarily provide.
What information do I collect from you?
If you book an online or telephone consultation, I will collect the following information from you:
- Your full name
- Date of birth
- Address
- Preferred contact number
- Email address
- GP details
- Any mental health needs.
If we decide to proceed with counselling, I will create and collect online documents such as: - A signed working agreement
- A signed data consent form.
I will also keep brief, factual notes about our counselling sessions, which may include sensitive information you have disclosed in a session.
How do I store your information?
I store your information on a personal password-protected computer (backed up using OneDrive). I also have McAfee Total Protection installed.
Signed documents and session notes are kept separate from your personal and contact details.
Your phone number will be on my practice mobile and protected using a passcode and Face ID.
When would I share your information?
I can share information with another professional or organisation if you ask me to and I have your signed consent, or it's an exceptional circumstance where I can break confidentiality, such as: - If I have significant concerns about your safety and wellbeing or the safety and wellbeing of others, including a child or young person.
- You infer knowledge of or involvement in acts of terrorism, drug trafficking or money laundering.
- I'm legally obliged to do so (court subpoena).
In the rare circumstance that I'd need to break confidentiality, I would endeavour to discuss such matters with you first, including what information I will disclose/share and to whom I will share it.
I regularly consult with a counselling supervisor - this is a requirement for all practising counsellors, and it helps me support you as best I can. But I will never reveal your identity to my supervisor.
How long will I keep your information?
I will keep your information for three years after the end of our counselling relationship and then delete it. I have chosen three years as a reasonable timeframe, including the complaints process of The National Counselling & Psychotherapy Society.
You can contact me if you have questions or concerns about your personal information
If you have any questions or concerns about your personal information, please email me through this website, and I will do my best to assist you.
