Therapist in thanet

When you come to counselling, you’re often sharing some of the most personal parts of your life. Feeling safe, respected, and in control of your information is essential, and that’s where GDPR comes in.

GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) is a law that protects your personal data and gives you rights over how it’s collected, stored, and used. In counselling, GDPR isn’t just a legal requirement; it’s part of creating a trustworthy and ethical space.

Below is a simple guide to how GDPR works in counselling, and what it means for you when you work with me at Nadia Ruth Counselling.

Why GDPR Matters in Counselling

Counselling involves sensitive information such as your thoughts, feelings, experiences, and personal details. GDPR helps ensure that:

• Your data is kept safe and secure
• You understand what information is held about you
• You have control over your own data
• Your information is never misused or shared unnecessarily

It’s all about transparency, safety, and respect.

What Information I Collect and Why

To work together safely and professionally, I collect certain information such as:

• Your name and contact details
• Emergency contact information
• Session notes
• Any relevant information you choose to share

I only collect what is necessary for providing a professional counselling service. I do not collect information I don’t need, and I do not share your information without your consent except in very rare situations where there is a legal or safeguarding requirement. This is always explained clearly in our agreement.

How Your Information Is Stored

Your data is stored securely using GDPR compliant systems and processes. This may include:

• Password protected digital storage
• Encrypted devices
• Secure email practices
• Locked paper files (if applicable)

Only I have access to your counselling information.

How Long Your Information Is Kept

Counsellors are required to keep client notes and records for a certain amount of time. I will always tell you:

• How long your information will be held
• How it will be disposed of securely

This will be clearly outlined in our therapy agreement.

Your Rights Under GDPR

You have important rights regarding your data, including:

1. The right to access – You can request to see information I hold about you.
2. The right to rectification – You can ask for inaccurate information to be corrected.
3. The right to erasure (the right to be forgotten) – In some cases you can ask for your data to be deleted.
4. The right to restrict processing – You can ask for your data to be kept but not used.
5. The right to data portability – You can request your data in a transferable format.
6. The right to object – You can object to how your data is being used, although this is rare in counselling.

If you ever want to use any of these rights, just let me know and I will guide you through the process.

Confidentiality and GDPR: How They Work Together

Confidentiality is a core part of counselling, and GDPR supports that. Everything you share is confidential unless:

• You are at serious risk of harm
• Someone else is at serious risk of harm
• There is a legal requirement to share information, such as certain court orders or safeguarding concerns

If any of these situations arise, I will always try to discuss this with you first whenever possible.

In Summary

GDPR exists to protect you. It ensures your personal information is handled with care, respect, and integrity.

At Nadia Ruth Counselling, transparency and safety are central to the work. If you ever have questions about how your information is used, stored, or protected, you are always welcome to ask. Your peace of mind matters.