Your privacy matters.

Whether our sessions are for you as an adult, you as a parent; whether the therapy is for your child, or for you as a professional seeking support - you deserve a space where you can speak freely, honestly, and without fear of judgement or exposure.

 

Confidentiality is at the heart of my practice. It’s the foundation of trust between us, and I value this highly.

 

 

 What Confidentiality Means in My Practice

Everything you share with me -  your words, your experiences, your emotions, your identity -  is held in strict confidence. This includes:

• The content of our conversations
• The fact that you are attending therapy at all
• Any notes I keep (stored securely and privately)
• Any communication between us

 

Your information is never shared with anyone else unless you choose to share it.

 

 The Limits of Confidentiality

There are only a few situations where I may need to break confidentiality, and these are standard across all ethical counselling practice. I would only share information if:

• You are at serious risk of harm
• Someone else is at serious risk of harm
• There is a legal requirement to do so (e.g., safeguarding concerns involving a child or vulnerable adult)

If such a situation ever arose, I would always aim to discuss it with you first, explain my concerns, and agree on the most appropriate next steps together wherever possible.

My priority is always your safety and wellbeing.

 

 Confidentiality When Working with Children & Young People

Children and young people also have the right to privacy in therapy. I offer them a confidential space where they can speak openly, with the same limits around serious harm.

For parents and carers, I provide general updates about themes or progress without sharing the child’s private disclosures unless:

• the child gives permission, or
• there is a safeguarding concern

This balance helps young people feel safe while keeping adults appropriately informed.

 

 Confidentiality in the Community: If We See Each Other in Public

Because I work locally, it’s possible that we may cross paths outside of sessions -  in town, at the shops, at an event, or anywhere life happens.

To protect your privacy, I will not approach you or acknowledge you first.

This isn’t me being rude or distant - it’s me making sure you’re never put in the awkward position of having to explain who I am to anyone you’re with.

However, if you choose to say hello, I’m more than happy to greet you warmly in return.

You’re always in control of whether you want to acknowledge our connection outside the therapy room.

Your comfort and privacy come first.

 

 How I Store and Protect Your Information

I keep minimal notes, stored securely and in line with professional and legal requirements. These notes are:

• confidential
• anonymised where possible
• stored safely
• never shared with third parties unless required by law or risk of serious harm

You are welcome to ask about how your information is stored at any time.

 

 Professional Standards & Ethical Practice

As a BACP counsellor, I work in accordance with the BACP Ethical Framework. This means:

• I prioritise your wellbeing
• I maintain professional boundaries
• I work transparently and collaboratively
• I seek regular supervision to ensure safe, ethical practice
• I commit to ongoing training and reflective practice

You deserve a therapist who is accountable, grounded, and committed to doing the work well. That’s what I aim to offer.

 

 If You Have Questions About Confidentiality

You’re always welcome to ask. Whether you’re a parent, a young person, or an adult seeking support, I want you to feel fully informed and comfortable before we begin.

Your privacy, your safety, and your trust are central to everything I do.