Legal
Privacy policy
Last updated: 1 April 2026
This page explains how Beth Counselling ("I", "me", "my") collects, uses and protects your personal information when you visit this website, send an enquiry, or work with me as a client. I take your privacy seriously and follow the UK GDPR and Data Protection Act 2018.
Who is the data controller?
Beth, trading as Beth Counselling, is the data controller for any personal data you share. You can contact me at hello@massagebybeth.co.uk.
What I collect
- Enquiry details: name, email, phone (optional), and what you choose to share in your message.
- Client records: brief session notes, contact details, GP information (if shared with your consent), and payment records — held securely and encrypted.
- Website analytics: anonymised page-view data to help me understand how the site is used. No personally identifying information is collected by analytics.
Why I hold it (lawful basis)
- To reply to your enquiry (legitimate interest, consent).
- To provide counselling services to you (contract; special category data processed with explicit consent under Article 9 GDPR).
- To meet professional and legal obligations — including the BACP Ethical Framework, HMRC tax records, and safeguarding duties.
How long it's kept
Enquiries that don't proceed are deleted within 30 days. Active client records are kept for the duration of our work together. Closed-case records are retained for seven years in line with BACP and insurance guidance, then securely destroyed.
Where it's stored
Notes are stored in encrypted form on UK or EEA servers. Video sessions are delivered via a private business Zoom account with end-to-end encryption enabled. Sessions are never recorded.
Who it's shared with
Your information is not sold, swapped or shared for marketing. I share information only:
- With your explicit consent (e.g. your GP).
- With my clinical supervisor — anonymously, as required by the BACP for ethical practice.
- If I'm legally required to (e.g. court order, serious risk of harm, or safeguarding duties).
Your rights
You have the right to access, correct, or request deletion of your personal data, to restrict or object to processing, and to complain to the ICO (ico.org.uk). To exercise these rights, email me using the address above.
Cookies
This site uses only essential cookies and privacy-friendly, anonymised analytics. No advertising or third-party tracking cookies are used.