Privacy Policy

This privacy policy explains how I collect, use, store, and protect your personal data when you visit my website or contact me regarding counselling services. This policy is informed by the ethical principles of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) and complies with the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR) and the Data Protection Act 2018.

Information I collect

When you contact me through my website, email, telephone, or enquiry form, I may collect personal information such as:

• Your name
• Email address
• Telephone number
• Any information you choose to share about your reasons for seeking counselling

If you become a client, I may collect additional information necessary for the provision of counselling services, including emergency contact details and relevant administrative records.

How your information is used

Your information is used solely for purposes connected with the provision of counselling services, including:

• Responding to enquiries
• Arranging appointments
• Maintaining professional records
• Providing counselling and related support
• Meeting legal, ethical, and professional obligations

I will only process your personal data where there is a lawful basis to do so, such as your consent, the performance of a contract, or compliance with legal obligations.

Confidentiality

Confidentiality is a fundamental aspect of counselling. Information shared in counselling sessions will be treated as confidential and will not be disclosed to third parties without your consent, except in circumstances where:

• There is a serious risk of harm to yourself or others
• Disclosure is required by law
• A court order requires disclosure
• Safeguarding concerns arise involving a child or vulnerable adult

Where possible, confidentiality concerns will be discussed with you before any disclosure is made.

Data storage and security

I take reasonable steps to ensure your personal information is stored securely and protected from unauthorised access, loss, misuse, or disclosure. Electronic records are stored on password-protected devices and systems. Paper records, where used, are kept securely. Only information necessary for the provision of counselling services is retained.

Data retention

Client records are retained for a period consistent with professional and insurance requirements, typically seven years after the end of counselling, after which they are securely destroyed. Different retention periods may apply where required by law.

Your rights

Under UK GDPR, you have the right to:

• Request access to your personal data
• Request correction of inaccurate information
• Request erasure of personal data where appropriate
• Restrict or object to certain forms of processing
• Withdraw consent where consent is the basis for processing
• Lodge a complaint with the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) if you believe your data has been handled improperly

Website cookies

This website may use essential cookies to improve functionality and user experience. Cookies do not generally identify you personally. You may adjust your browser settings to refuse cookies if you wish.

Contact

If you have any questions about this privacy policy or how your personal information is handled, please contact:

Barbara Falkiner
Summit Therapy
Email: barbara@summitwaytherapy.com
Telephone: +33 6 23 03 78 10

This privacy policy may be updated from time to time to reflect changes in legal, professional, or operational requirements. The most recent version will always be available on this website.