Privacy Policy

Effective Date: 01.11.2025
 Last Updated: 01.11.2025

Metis Counselling is committed to protecting your personal data and respecting your privacy. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, store, and use personal information in compliance with the UK GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018.

Summary for Clients

When you book your first session with Metis Counselling, you will be provided with a Counselling Contract outlining confidentiality, session agreements, and expectations. This Privacy Policy complements that contract and provides detailed information on how your personal data is managed. Use of this website does not constitute a therapeutic relationship, and the information provided is for general guidance only. It is not a substitute for personalised counselling or professional advice.

1. Information We Collect

We may collect the following types of personal data:

  • Contact information: name, email address, phone number, postal address

  • Health and counselling information: personal history, session notes, and other details relevant to your therapy

  • Website data: information you provide via contact forms, emails, or other online interactions

2. How We Use Your Information

Your data may be used for the following purposes:

  • To provide counselling and related services

  • To communicate with you about appointments, invoices, or service updates

  • To maintain client records in compliance with professional and legal obligations

  • To improve our services and website functionality

We will only process personal data where there is a lawful basis, such as:

  • Performance of a contract (Counselling Contract)

  • Consent

  • Legal obligation

  • Legitimate interests (e.g., improving our services, ensuring client safety)

3. Data Sharing

Your information will be kept confidential and will only be shared:

  • To you with your explicit consent

  • Where required by law (e.g., safeguarding or court order)

  • With professional advisors or supervisory bodies, under strict confidentiality agreements

4. Data Storage and Security

We store personal data securely, using password-protected electronic files and secure storage for paper records. Access is restricted to authorised personnel only.

5. Data Retention

We retain client records for seven years after the end of therapy. After this period, data is securely destroyed.

6. Your Rights

Under the UK GDPR, you have the right to:

  • Access your personal data

  • Request correction of inaccurate or incomplete data

  • Request erasure of your data (where applicable)

  • Restrict or object to processing

  • Data portability

  • Withdraw consent at any time

To exercise your rights, please contact us at [email protected]. You will be asked for proof of identity to complete your request. You also have the right to lodge a complaint with the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO).

7. Cookies

Our website may use cookies to enhance functionality and analyse usage. You can manage or disable cookies in your browser settings. 

8. Accessibility and Commitment to Diversity

Metis Counselling is committed to providing an inclusive and accessible service for all clients. We value and respect diversity in all its forms and do not discriminate on the basis of age, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, relationship status, race, religion, or belief.
 We aim to make our services and website accessible to everyone and will make reasonable adjustments where possible to meet individual needs. If you require information in an alternative format or additional support to access counselling, please contact us to discuss how we can best assist you.

9. Use of Reputable Third-Party Services

To deliver our services effectively, Metis Counselling may use trusted third-party providers for certain functions such as email communication, secure data storage, or managing online contact forms.
 These providers are carefully selected for their high standards of security and compliance with the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR).
 Any personal information shared with them is limited to what is necessary for service delivery, and they are contractually required to keep your data safe and confidential.

10. Third-Party Links

Our website may contain links to external websites for convenience or informational purposes. We do not control these websites and are not responsible for their privacy practices or content.
 We encourage you to read the privacy policies of any third-party websites you visit, as they may handle your data differently.

11. Changes to This Privacy Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy periodically to reflect changes in our practices or legal requirements. The latest version will always be available on our website, with the date of the last update clearly displayed.

12. Contact Us

If you have any questions or concerns about this Privacy Policy or how your data is handled, please contact:

Metis Counselling
 📧 Email: [email protected]
 🌐 Website: www.metiscounselling.co.uk