Privacy Policy

This Privacy Policy explains how I collect, use, store, and protect your personal information when you use our website. It is intended to give you clear and transparent information about what data I gather, why I collect it, and how it is handled. I am committed to safeguarding your privacy and ensuring your personal data is processed responsibly, securely, and in accordance with applicable data protection laws. By using this site, you acknowledge and agree to the practices described in this policy.

Effective Date: 26/06/2026

  • I’m Emma Westlake, a person-centred counsellor and clinical supervisor working under the name Emma Westlake Counselling & Supervision. I am committed to safeguarding the privacy of all clients and visitors to this website.

    I am registered with the ICO (Information Commissioner’s Office) and adhere to the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR) and the Data Protection Act 2018.

  • I may collect, store, and use the following personal information:
        •    Name, contact information (email, phone number), and availability
        •    Information you provide in a contact form, email, or during initial enquiries
        •    Notes and records from therapy or supervision sessions (kept securely and confidentially)
        •    Emergency contact details (if therapy begins)
        •    Any relevant information required for safeguarding or legal purposes

  • I use your personal data to:
        •    Respond to your enquiries
        •    Arrange and deliver counselling or supervision sessions
        •    Keep accurate and ethical records of our work together
        •    Ensure your safety and comply with legal obligations
        •    Manage bookings, payments, and professional correspondence

  • I process your data under the following lawful bases:
        •    Contract: To provide therapy or supervision services.
        •    Legal Obligation: To meet safeguarding and regulatory requirements.
        •    Legitimate Interest: To respond to enquiries and maintain a professional service.

  • All electronic records are stored securely and password-protected. Written notes are stored in a locked cabinet. I retain records in line with professional guidelines (typically 5–7 years after our work ends) and then securely destroy them.

  • Everything discussed in sessions is confidential, with exceptions only if:
        •    You or someone else is at risk of serious harm
        •    A court of law requires disclosure
        •    Disclosure is required by law (e.g. safeguarding concerns, terrorism, money laundering)

    Where possible, I will always try to speak with you first if I need to break confidentiality.

  • You have the right to:
        •    Access the information I hold about you
        •    Request correction of inaccurate data
        •    Ask for your data to be deleted (where appropriate)
        •    Withdraw consent (where applicable)
        •    Lodge a complaint with the ICO if you feel your data is mishandled

    Visit www.ico.org.uk for more information.

  • This website may use secure third-party platforms (such as contact forms, email services, or booking tools). I take steps to ensure any platform I use complies with data protection standards.

  • If you have any questions or concerns about this privacy policy or how your data is handled, please contact me:

    Emma Westlake 
    Emma Westlake Counselling & Supervision
    Info@emmawestlakecounselling.com
    07903927069
    [ICO 00019174023]

    This policy will be reviewed annually and updated as needed to remain compliant with regulations and best practices.