Privacy policy

Privacy Policy

Last updated: 31 August 2026

I take your privacy seriously. This page explains what information I collect, why I collect it, and how it is stored and protected.

1. Information I collect

I collect only the information needed to respond to enquiries and provide counselling services.

This may include:

your name
your email address or phone number
any information you choose to share in your enquiry
brief clinical notes relating to counselling sessions
emergency contact details (if we work together)

2. Why I collect it

I collect and use your information so I can:

respond to your enquiry
provide counselling sessions
keep basic records in line with professional, ethical, and insurance requirements
contact emergency services, a nominated emergency contact, or other relevant services if there is a serious concern about your safety or the safety of another person

My lawful bases for processing personal data are:

Contract
Legitimate Interests
Legal Obligation
Vital Interests

3. How your information is stored

Your information is stored securely.

Digital notes are kept on a password-protected device.

I do not keep paper notes.

Your information will not be shared with third parties unless there is a legal obligation to do so, there are safeguarding concerns, or you have given your consent.

Information submitted through the website contact form may be processed by trusted third-party providers, such as Squarespace, for the purpose of receiving and responding to enquiries.

4. How long I keep information

Adult client records are retained for 7 years after therapy ends.

Enquiry emails are kept for up to 6 months.

Emergency contact details are deleted when therapy ends unless there is a legal or professional reason to retain them.

5. Your rights

Under UK GDPR, you have the right to:

access the information I hold about you
request corrections to inaccurate information
request deletion of your data (subject to legal and professional record-keeping requirements)
restrict how your information is used
object to certain types of processing
lodge a complaint with the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO)

For more information about your rights, visit the ICO website.

6. ICO Registration

I am registered with the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO).

Registration Number: ZB817095

7. Cookies

This website uses essential cookies to help it function correctly.

You can choose to disable cookies through your browser settings, although this may affect how some parts of the website work.

8. Contact

If you have any questions about this Privacy Policy or how your information is handled, please contact:

Nicola Bennett Counselling

Sudbury, Suffolk, CO10

Email: nb_counselling@outlook.com