Privacy policy

Last updated: March 26, 2026

Privacy Policy

At Jamie Clarke Counselling, your privacy and confidentiality are taken seriously. This policy explains how your personal information is collected, used, and protected when you use this website or engage with counselling services.

Who I Am

Jamie Clarke Counselling is the data controller responsible for your personal data.

If you have any questions about this policy, you can contact:
enquiries@jamieclarkecounselling.co.uk

 

What Information I Collect

Website enquiries

When you contact me via the website, email, or phone, I may collect:

  • Your name
  • Email address
  • Phone number
  • Any information you choose to share

Counselling clients

If you become a client, I may also collect:

  • Contact details
  • GP details (if relevant)
  • Session notes
  • Information relating to your mental health

This may include special category data (sensitive personal data relating to health).

How Your Information Is Used

Your data is used to:

  • Respond to enquiries
  • Provide counselling services
  • Maintain accurate records
  • Arrange appointments
  • Meet legal and professional obligations

Lawful Basis for Processing

Under UK GDPR, I rely on the following lawful bases:

  • Contract – to provide counselling services
  • Legitimate interests – to respond to enquiries and manage the practice
  • Legal obligation – where required by law
  • Special category condition – provision of health care

Confidentiality

Everything you share in counselling is treated as confidential.

However, there are rare exceptions where confidentiality may be broken:

  • Risk of serious harm to you or others
  • Legal requirements (e.g. court order)
  • Safeguarding concerns

These will always be discussed with you where possible.

How Your Data Is Stored

Your data is stored securely using:

  • Password-protected systems
  • Secure email services
  • Locked physical storage (if applicable)

I take appropriate steps to prevent unauthorised access or disclosure.

How Long Your Data Is Kept

Your data is only kept for as long as necessary.

Typical retention:

  • Client records: up to 7 years after therapy ends
  • Enquiries: deleted if no ongoing contact

After this, data is securely deleted or destroyed.

Sharing Your Information

Your data will not be shared with third parties unless:

  • Required by law
  • Necessary for safeguarding
  • You have given consent

I do not sell or share your data for marketing purposes.

Website Cookies

This website may use cookies to:

  • Improve user experience
  • Monitor website performance

You can control cookies through your browser settings.

Your Rights

Under UK data protection law, you have the right to:

  • Access your personal data
  • Request correction of inaccurate data
  • Request deletion of your data
  • Restrict or object to processing
  • Request transfer of your data

You can exercise these rights by contacting me.

Complaints

If you are unhappy with how your data is handled, you can contact:

Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO)
https://www.ico.org.uk

Changes to This Policy

This policy may be updated from time to time. Please check this page periodically.