As a registered Counsellor and sole trader, I am committed to protecting your privacy and keeping your personal information safe, secure, and confidential.

What Information Do I Collect?

When we begin working together, I may collect the following:

• Your name, date of birth, and contact details

• GP contact (in case of safeguarding concerns)

• Brief notes from sessions

• Relevant background or medical history (if shared by you)

Why Do I Collect This Information?

This data is collected to:

• Provide you with counselling services

• Maintain accurate records for professional, legal, and ethical reasons

• Contact you about appointments

How is Your Information Stored?

Your data is:

• Stored securely (either digitally with password protection or locked in a filing cabinet)

• Accessed only by me

• Retained for up to 7 years after our work ends, in line with professional guidelines

Who Do I Share Your Data With?

I do not share your information unless:

• Required by law (e.g. court order)

• There is serious risk of harm to you or others

• You give explicit consent

In the rare event of my sudden incapacity, a trusted therapeutic executor would access client contact details for the sole purpose of informing you and offering closure.

Your Rights

You have the right to:

• See the information I hold about you

• Ask for it to be corrected or deleted

• Withdraw your consent (which may mean we cannot continue sessions)

Data Controller

Louise Shepherd
Contact: hello@louiseshepherd.co.uk / 07858 944 273