What is Confidentiality

Confidentiality is part of the counselling contract which states that everything that is discussed in the session is kept in the strictest confidence. This allows you to feel safe and free to share everything without fear of this being used against you.

However there are some instances when I might need to share your information with you or others. In such cases I would ensure to speak with you first about what I need to share, why, and with whom. Where possible this is a collaborative process where the goal is to get your consent and cooperation when sharing information.

Some of the instances when I might discuss our work or share your notes:

• If you request access to your notes, as it is your data and you have a right to access this information.

• During supervision. As a Member of the BACP, I am required to have regular supervision and I will need to discuss my work with a supervisor to ensure the highest standard of care. However, I will not disclose your surname or any details that would enable you to be identified.

• If there is convincing evidence that you intend to harm yourself. I might need to inform your GP and/or your emergency contact, this would ideally only take place with your prior knowledge and consent.

• If there is convincing evidence that you intend to or have harmed others. I would need to inform the person involved, my supervisor and relevant protective services.

• If I’m working in a multi disciplinary team with other professionals my notes can be shared with them to provide you the best services.

We will go through this usually during the first session and at any point I might feel obliged to share your information. If you have any questions about any of this do not hesitate to bring it up during our next session.

Data Collection and Privacy Notice

To be compliant with GDPR and to be completely transparent, this is my privacy policy.

I collect data through this website contact form, emergency contact form, emails, text messages, social media posting or any other ways that you communicate with me. I keep this data so I can communicate with you, for record keeping, safeguarding and in case of any legal claims.

Regardless of how you contact me all my devices, accounts and documents are password and/or face ID protected, often with two factor authentication.

As mentioned above I keep session notes which are anonymised and password protected. They hold details of the date of the session and what happened in the session to aid my memory and help monitor your process.

When our work has ended I delete your phone number and email address, emergency contact details, your home address, and your GP details from my contacts and records. If you wish to amend or delete any information I have please email me at azbel.counselor@gmail.com

I do not, have not and will never sell your personal data to third-party companies.