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Privacy Policy

A legal disclaimer

The information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. While I am a qualified person-centred counsellor, the content on this website should not be considered a substitute for counselling, psychotherapy, medical, or legal advice.

1. Therapeutic Services

All counselling services offered are provided in accordance with my professional training, ethical guidelines, and membership requirements of [insert relevant body, e.g. BACP, UKCP, or NCS].
However, outcomes from counselling cannot be guaranteed, and the effectiveness of therapy will vary for each individual. You are encouraged to take responsibility for your own wellbeing and decisions during and after the counselling process.

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2. Crisis or Emergency Situations

This website and my counselling service are not suitable for crisis or emergency support.
If you are in immediate distress or feel unsafe, please contact your GP, call 999, or reach out to an emergency helpline such as:

  • Samaritans: 116 123 (free, 24 hours a day)

  • NHS 111 (for urgent but non-emergency care)

  • Shout: Text 85258 (free 24/7 text support)

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3. Website Content

All materials on this website (including articles, blogs, and resources) are intended to provide insight into counselling and emotional wellbeing. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, I make no representations or warranties about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information provided.

Any reliance you place on information from this website is at your own risk. I accept no liability for any loss, injury, or damage arising directly or indirectly from your use of the site or from any reliance on the information contained herein.

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4. External Links

This website may contain links to third-party websites or resources. I am not responsible for the content, accuracy, or privacy practices of any external websites, and the inclusion of such links does not imply endorsement.

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5. Professional Relationship

Accessing or using this website does not establish a therapeutic or professional relationship. A counselling relationship begins only once an assessment has taken place, and a signed counselling agreement has been mutually accepted.

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6. Legal Jurisdiction

This website and counselling services are governed by the laws of England and Wales. Any disputes arising from its use shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the English courts.

Privacy Policy 

1. Introduction

I am committed to protecting your privacy and handling your personal information with care and respect. This privacy policy explains how I collect, use, store, and share your personal information in accordance with the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR) and the Data Protection Act 2018.

I am the data controller for the personal information I process in connection with my counselling servic

2. Information I Collect

To provide counselling services, I may collect the following personal information:

  • Your name, contact details, and emergency contact information

  • Relevant background information (e.g., date of birth, GP details)

  • Notes from counselling sessions

  • Correspondence between us (emails, texts, messages)

  • Payment details (if applicable)

I only collect the information necessary to provide safe, effective, and ethical counselling

3. How I Use Your Information

Your information is used for the following purposes:

  • To arrange, provide, and manage counselling sessions

  • To maintain accurate and confidential records

  • To contact you regarding appointments or updates

  • To meet legal, ethical, or professional obligations (e.g., supervision, safeguarding)

I do not use your information for marketing purposes or share it with third parties for commercial use.

4. Lawful Basis for Processing

Under the UK GDPR, I rely on the following lawful bases:

  • Contract: To provide counselling services as agreed with you

  • Legal Obligation: To comply with legal or regulatory duties

  • Vital Interests: To protect you or others in cases of serious harm

  • Consent: In specific situations where you have given clear consent

5. How I Store and Protect Your Information

  • Paper notes are stored securely in a locked cabinet.

  • Electronic records are kept on password-protected devices.

  • Your data is kept confidential and only accessible to me.

  • I retain records for up to 7 years after the end of therapy, in line with professional and insurance requirements, after which they are securely destroyed.

6. Sharing of Information

Your information is confidential and will not be shared unless:

  • You have given explicit consent for it to be shared

  • There is a risk of serious harm to yourself or others

  • I am legally required to disclose information (e.g., court order, safeguarding)

  • In professional supervision, where your identity remains protected

7. Your Rights

You have the right to:

  • Access a copy of your personal information

  • Request correction of inaccurate data

  • Request erasure of your information (where appropriate)

  • Restrict or object to processing

  • Lodge a complaint with the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO): www.ico.org.uk

8. Updates to This Policy

This privacy policy may be updated from time to time to reflect changes in legal or professional requirements. The latest version will always be available on my website.

TESTIMONIALS

"This therapy has helped me heal parts of myself I didn’t even know were still hurting."

Joanna created such a calm and supportive space where I felt completely safe to open up. Her person-centred approach helped me explore and understand the impact of my childhood experiences. Over time, I’ve started to rebuild trust in myself and feel more grounded, confident, and able to move forward.

"I finally feel understood."

At first, I really didn’t think counselling would help me. I was nervous about talking to someone and thought they’d just tell me what to do or try to “fix” me. But Joanna was completely different — she actually listened. She didn’t judge me or make me feel weird for how I was feeling. It was more like having a safe space where I could finally be honest about everything.

Over time, I started to understand myself better and notice how my thoughts and feelings connect. Joanna never pushed me — she let me go at my own pace, and that made it so much easier to open up. I’ve learned how to cope when things get tough, and I feel so much more confident and calm now.

If you’re a teen who feels lost or just needs someone to really get you, I’d honestly recommend trying person-centred counselling. It’s made a huge difference for me.

"Joanna has made such a difference to our child and our whole family."

When our child first started seeing Joanna, they were struggling with anxiety, low confidence, and finding it hard to express their feelings. From the very beginning, Joanna made them feel safe, listened to, and accepted.

Her calm and caring approach meant our child could open up in their own time and start to build trust. We’ve seen such positive changes — more confidence, better communication, and a happier, more relaxed child.

As parents, it’s been a huge relief. Joanna’s person-centred support has helped our child reconnect with their strengths and believe in themselves again. We’re so grateful for her kindness and understanding.

Therapy session discussion
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