Privacy Policy
At IDC – Ian Derry Counselling, your privacy is a priority. This Privacy Policy outlines how I collect, use, and protect your personal data when providing online therapeutic counselling sessions using a person-centred approach.
Data Controller
Ian Derry is the Data Controller responsible for the personal data processed during counselling sessions. For any queries about this Privacy Policy, please contact:
• Email: ian@iderry.co.uk
• I am registered with the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) ico.org.uk and comply with the UK GDPR.
What Data I Collect
When you engage with IDC – Ian Derry Counselling, the following personal data may be collected:
• Contact Information: Name, email address, phone number.
• Personal Information: Date of birth, relevant medical history, emergency contact details.
• Session Notes: Brief, anonymised notes taken to support therapeutic work.
• Payment Details: If applicable, data necessary for processing payments.
How I Use Your Data
I process your personal data for the following purposes:
• To provide therapeutic counselling sessions.
• To communicate about appointments, cancellations, or queries.
• To comply with legal or ethical requirements (e.g., safeguarding concerns).
Legal Basis for Processing
Your data is processed under the following legal bases:
• Consent: By agreeing to engage in counselling, you provide consent for data collection and use.
• Legal Obligation: In cases where I am legally required to share data (e.g., safeguarding, court orders).
Data Storage and Security
Your personal data is stored securely in compliance with the UK General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the Data Protection Act 2018: www.gov.uk/data-protection
• Digital files are encrypted and password protected.
• Any written records are stored in a locked, secure location.
• Data is retained for up to 7 years (or until the client reaches 25 years old for under-18s), in line with professional guidelines.
Sharing of Information
Your information is kept strictly confidential. However, I may need to share data in the following exceptional circumstances:
• When there is a risk of harm to you or others.
• If required by law (e.g., safeguarding obligations, court orders).
• With your explicit consent (e.g., referral to another professional).
Your Rights
You have the following rights under GDPR:
• Access: Request a copy of your personal data.
• Correction: Rectify inaccurate or incomplete data.
• Erasure: Request deletion of your data (subject to legal retention requirements).
• Restriction: Limit how your data is processed in certain situations.
• Data Portability: Request transfer of your data to another service provider.
Online Sessions
For online counselling sessions, I use secure, encrypted platforms to protect your confidentiality. However, I recommend you also take precautions, such as ensuring privacy during sessions and using a secure internet connection.
Disclaimer
Online therapy is not a replacement for medical, psychiatric, or emergency care. If you are in crisis or need immediate support, please contact your local emergency services or a crisis helpline.
Online therapy may not be suitable for everyone or every situation. By using this service, you acknowledge the limitations and risks associated with online communication, including potential technical or privacy issues beyond the therapist’s control.
Therapy is a collaborative process and outcomes cannot be guaranteed. Further details are provided in the 'Our Way of Working ' agreement, which will be shared before sessions begin.
Complaints
If you are unhappy with how your data is handled, please contact me directly. You also have the right to lodge a complaint with the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO):
• Website: ico.org.uk
• Phone: 0303 123 1113
Updates to This Policy
This Privacy Policy may be updated periodically. You will be informed of significant changes.
For further information or to discuss your rights, please contact me directly via email.