This privacy policy governs the manner in which Phoenix Therapy Services uses, maintains and discloses information collected from clients using website https://www.phoenix-therapy-services.com.This privacy policy applies to the site and all products and services offered by Phoenix Therapy Services online, by telephone or within private practice.

I collect and hold some sensitive information from clients in a variety of ways including, but not limited to, filling in online forms, completing consultation documents, voice messages and note taking during telephone calls and therapy sessions. 

I will collect personal identification information from clients only if they voluntarily submit such information to me. Clients can always refuse to supply personal identification information, though this may prevent them from fully benefitting from my services.

What information do I collect?

I collect names, addresses, telephone numbers, email addresses, ages (including date of birth) and current GP details. Any other information collected is considered confidential, including note-taking, and is stored away from any identification details.

Why do I need it?

I need to store your details in order to provide you with the service you have requested and to comply with any legal or professional body responsibilities that ensue in the delivery of that service. 

How I use collected information

Predominately I use this information to make contact with you. I also use the information to make assessments and record clinical notes. If applicable, I would use the information provided to contact relevant external individuals like your GP or emergency contact.

How I protect your information

This data is stored safely in compliance with GDPR and with the appropriate security safeguards set out by the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). This includes physical, administrative and electronic security measures.

All personal information is coded to prevent any means of identifying client details to notes or recorded sessions. Your data is kept confidential and secure in a locked filing cabinet at my home and/or on a password protected PC or phone, in accordance with GDPR.

Sharing your personal information and confidentiality

Personal information will not be used or disclosed other than for purposes for which it is collected, except with the consent of the individual or as required by law. I have a duty to break confidentiality if there is the risk of harm to self and/or to others. I am also bound by law to disclose if you were to share anything around money laundering, terrorism, child protection or drug trafficking or If I were to receive a court order. 

I receive clinical supervision which means I speak to a supervisor about my work. This is to ensure that I am working ethically and professionally at all times. The work is anonymised to ensure that there is never any details that can be traced back to my clients.

I have a clinical will, which is held by my Supervisor, meaning if anything were to happen to myself. My supervisor would contact you and advise you of the situation.

I will only retain personal information as long as necessary for the fulfilment of these purposes and in line with BACP requirements and my insurance company.

 I do not trade information to third parties in any way whatsoever. Everything said within the context of therapy is considered confidential.

At any point, you have a right to make a written request for the details of personal information that I hold about you. You can simply email me and I will be happy to share the records that I have for you.

Right to Rectification - If you believe that any information I am holding on you is incorrect, incomplete or needs updating, please email me with details and I will promptly make the right changes. I will always show you any report or letter I write to a third party (GP) before I send it, and invite you to rectify it as you see fit.

Right to lodge formal complaint - If you believe that your rights under the GDPR regulation have been infringed, or that the processing of personal data relating to you does not comply with lawful regulation, visit the Information Commissioners Office  to find out how such matters can be dealt with on your behalf. Their helpline is 0303 123 1113.

Third party websites

Clients may find content on my website that links to the sites of other third parties. I do not control these sites which have a link to mine and I am not responsible for how they collect, store or use information.

Changes to this privacy policy

I have the right to update this privacy policy at any time. If I do, I will revise the date at the bottom of this section and provide a new copy for current clients. I encourage all clients to check this document for any changes, to stay informed about how I am helping to protect the personal information I collect. You acknowledge and agree that it is your responsibility to review this privacy policy periodically and become aware of modifications.

Your acceptance of these terms 

I will ask you to sign a copy of my privacy statement before we begin working together and will provide you with a copy for your own records as well.

Contacting me

If you have any questions about this privacy policy you may contact me by email at phoenixtherapyservices@yahoo.com or by telephone on 07443 768332.

December 2020.