Privacy policy

Privacy Policy

This privacy policy explains how I collect, use and protect your personal information when you contact me or engage in counselling.

Who I Am

I am Howard Aaron, a private practice counsellor offering face to face therapy in Basildon, Essex, and online therapy across the UK.

What Information I Collect

When you contact me via the website contact form, email or telephone, I may collect:

Your name
Your email address
Your telephone number
Any information you choose to share in your message

If we begin working together, I will collect additional information necessary for the provision of counselling services. This may include contact details, GP details, and relevant personal history.

How Your Information Is Used

I use your information in order to:

Respond to your enquiry
Arrange and provide counselling sessions
Maintain clinical records in line with professional and legal requirements

I will only use your information for the purpose for which it was given.

Lawful Basis for Processing

I process personal data under the lawful basis of legitimate interest and, where therapy is provided, for the provision of a contract for services. Sensitive personal data shared within therapy is processed in accordance with UK data protection law.

How Your Information Is Stored

Initial contact information and digital contracts are stored securely on password-protected devices.

Clinical notes are handwritten and stored in a locked cabinet. Access to these records is restricted and they are kept in accordance with professional, ethical and insurance requirements.

Records are retained for a period consistent with professional guidelines and are then securely destroyed.

Confidentiality

All information shared within counselling is treated as confidential. There are limits to confidentiality where there is a legal obligation or serious risk of harm to yourself or others. These limits are discussed at the start of therapy.

Sharing of Information

I do not share your personal information with third parties unless required by law or where there is a serious safeguarding concern.

Your Rights

Under UK data protection law, you have the right to:

Request access to your personal data
Request correction of inaccurate data
Request erasure of your data in certain circumstances
Lodge a complaint with the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO)

If you have any questions about how your information is handled, you can contact me directly.

Contact Details

Howard Aaron
The Old Rectory
Church Road
Bowers Gifford
Basildon
SS13 2HG

Telephone: 07850 251825
Email: howard.aaron35@gmail.com

If you have any queries with how your data is handled, you can contact the Information Commissioner’s Office at: - https://ico.org.uk