Best Self Therapy : Wirral
Privacy Policy

Privacy Policy

(Psychotherapeutic Counselling & Hypnotherapy Private Practice)

 

1. Introduction

This privacy notice explains how I collect, use, store and protect your personal data in line with the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR), the Data Protection Act 2018, and the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) Ethical Framework.

 

I am committed to protecting your privacy and handling your personal information in a safe, transparent, and respectful way.

 

2. Data Controller

I am the data controller for the personal data I hold.

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Name: Delyth Cole

Practice name: Best Self Therapy : Wirral

Address: Wellness, 66 Argyle Street, Birkenhead, Wirral CH41 6AF

Email: hello@bestselftherapy.co.uk

Phone: 07743 440664

 

3. The Personal Data I Collect

I may collect and store the following types of personal data:

 

a) Personal Identification Data

• Name

• Address

• Email address

• Telephone number

• Date of birth

• Emergency contact details

 

b) Special Category (Sensitive) Data

As a psychotherapeutic counsellor and hypnotherapist, I may collect sensitive personal data, including:

• Mental and emotional health information

• Relevant medical information

• Therapy session notes and assessments

 

This data is essential for providing safe and effective therapy.

 

4. How I Collect Your Data

Your data may be collected:

• Directly from you (e.g. enquiry forms, assessments, sessions)

• Via email, phone, text message, or online platforms

• Through referral information (with your consent)

 

5. Legal Basis for Processing

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

• Contract – to provide therapeutic services

• Legitimate interests – to maintain appropriate records

• Consent – where required, particularly for special category data

• Legal obligation – where required by law

• Vital interests – in rare situations to protect life

 

6. How Your Data Is Used

Your personal data is used to:

• Provide psychotherapy and hypnotherapy services

• Maintain clinical records in line with BACP guidelines

• Communicate with you about appointments and therapy matters

• Ensure safe and ethical practice

 

I will never sell your data or use it for marketing without your explicit consent.

 

7. Confidentiality and Its Limits

Confidentiality is a core part of my practice. However, there are limits where I may need to share information, including:

• If there is a serious risk of harm to you or others

• If safeguarding concerns arise (children or vulnerable adults)

• If required by law or court order

• For professional supervision (anonymised wherever possible)

 

Any disclosure will be made in line with ethical and legal obligations.

 

8. Data Storage and Security

I take appropriate steps to protect your data, including:

• Secure storage of paper records in locked cabinets

• Password-protected and encrypted digital records

• Secure devices and up-to-date software

 

I only keep data for as long as necessary and in accordance with BACP guidance.

 

9. How Long I Keep Your Data

In line with BACP recommendations, client records are typically retained for 7 years after the end of therapy (or 7 years after a client reaches adulthood, where applicable), after which they are securely destroyed.

 

10. Sharing Your Data

Your data will not be shared with third parties unless:

• You give explicit consent

• It is required for supervision (anonymous)

• There is a legal or safeguarding obligation

 

Any third parties used (e.g. secure booking or record-keeping systems) are GDPR compliant.

 

11. Your Rights

Under UK GDPR, you have the right to:

• Access your personal data

• Request correction of inaccurate data

• Request erasure (where applicable)

• Restrict processing

• Data portability

• Withdraw consent at any time

• Lodge a complaint with the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO)

 

12. Complaints

If you have concerns about how your data is handled, please contact me in the first instance.

You also have the right to complain to the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO):

www.ico.org.uk

 

13. Changes to This Privacy Policy

This privacy policy may be updated from time to time. The latest version will always be available upon request.

Latest Update: January 2026

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Cookies:

I keep cookie use on this website to a minimum.

This website uses essential cookies to ensure it works properly. Optional analytics cookies may be used to help improve the site. You can manage your cookie preferences at any time.

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Crisis Support & Limitations:

Please note: I am not a crisis service and cannot provide emergency support.

If you are in immediate danger, contact 999 or visit your nearest A&E