Lighten the Load Therapy

Privacy Policy

Privacy Policy for Lighten the Load Therapy

Last updated: 21.11.2025

This Privacy Policy explains how Lighten The Load Therapy, my practice collects, uses, stores, and protects your personal information in the course of providing counselling and psychotherapy services. I am committed to maintaining your confidentiality, safety, and trust.

1. Data Controller

The Data Controller responsible for your personal data is:

[Martin Brown / Practice Owner]
Address: 36 Front Street North, Trimdon Village, County Durham, TS29 6PG
Email: Martin@lightentheloadtherapy.com
Phone: 0797 927 405

If you have any questions about this policy, you may contact me at any time.

2. What Information I Collect

I may collect and process the following types of personal information:

a. Personal Identification Information

  • Full name
  • Date of birth
  • Contact details (address, phone number, email)

b. Therapy-Related Information

  • Notes I keep as part of our sessions
  • Information about your background, mental health, and concerns
  • Emergency contact details

c. Administrative and Financial Information

  • Payment information (e.g., bank transfer records, invoices)
  • Appointment scheduling data

d. Website Data (if applicable)

  • Cookies
  • IP address
  • Form submissions

3. Why I Collect Your Information

I process your personal data for the following purposes:

  • To provide counselling or psychotherapy services
  • To communicate with you regarding appointments or changes
  • To ensure your safety and wellbeing
  • To maintain accurate clinical records
  • To comply with legal, ethical, and professional obligations
  • To process payments and accounting

4. Legal Basis for Processing (GDPR-Friendly Version)

Your information is processed under the following legal bases:

  • Legitimate interests: To provide you with a therapeutic service
  • Contract: To deliver the service you have agreed to receive
  • Legal obligation: To comply with UK/EU law and regulatory requirements
  • Consent: For any optional or additional data processing

5. Confidentiality and When I May Share Your Information

Your information is kept confidential. I will only share it in the following circumstances:

  • Supervision: Anonymised details may be shared with a qualified supervisor.
  • With your explicit consent: For referrals or communication with another professional.
  • If required by law: For example, if I am ordered by a court.
  • If there is a serious risk of harm: If I believe you or someone else is at risk of significant harm, I may need to contact emergency services or relevant authorities.
  • To process payments or manage accounting (administrative staff or accountants may see limited data).

I will always aim to discuss this with you first unless doing so would increase risk.

6. How I Store and Protect Your Data

I take appropriate measures to keep your data safe:

  • Encrypted digital notes or password-protected devices
  • Paper records stored in locked, secure locations
  • Limited access only to those who need it
  • Secure email and messaging practices
  • Regular review of data security measures

7. How Long I Keep Your Information

Clinical records are retained for 6 years after the end of therapy, in accordance with professional guidelines and legal requirements.
After this period, records are securely destroyed.

8. Your Rights

You have rights concerning your personal data, including:

  • The right to access your information
  • The right to correct inaccurate data
  • The right to request deletion (where legally possible)
  • The right to restrict or object to processing
  • The right to data portability
  • The right to withdraw consent (where applicable)

To exercise these rights, please contact me using the details above.

9. Website, Cookies, and Online Communications (Optional Section)

If you use my website:

  • Cookies may be used for analytics or functionality
  • Contact form submissions are sent securely
  • No personal information is sold or shared with third parties for marketing

10. Changes to This Policy

This Privacy Policy may be updated from time to time. Any changes will be posted on www.lightentheloadtherapy.com /with the updated revision date.

11. Complaints

If you have concerns about how I handle your data, please contact me directly.
You also have the right to complain to:

Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO)
Website: ico.org.uk
Phone: 0303 123 1113