Privacy Policy & GDPR

How will my data be stored?

 In May 2018 the Data Protection Act was replaced by the General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR). The changes to the Data Protection Act are aimed at ensuring that your personal, confidential, and sometimes sensitive data, is held privately and securely.

 

How long will you hold my information for?

I am a member of the National Council for Hypnotherapy (NCH) which stipulates that written records are stored securely for 8 years after the last interaction with an adult client and up to the age of 25 for a child under 16 when last seen or 26yrs for 17–18 year-olds. This is also in line with my insurance company guidelines and with the NHS regulations for retaining data.

 

What if I would like my data to be destroyed before this date?

Under GDPR rules, you are able to request the deletion of any of your records at any time.

 

Am I able to see or get a copy of the information held by you?

In line with GDPR, yes, within 30 days

 

What are your reasons for collecting this information?

When you become a client, I will need to gather information about your reasons for using this service.  This includes a small amount about your health, your family, as well as brief session notes.  This information enables me to provide a high-quality service for you and to equip me with the knowledge of our previous sessions prior to each successive one.  Your contact details and GP’s details will only be used with your explicit consent or in an emergency.

 

How do I know that you will store my information securely?

• Paper documents – are all stored in an unmarked locked cabinet in a secure property

• Text messages – My work phone is secured with a pin code

• Diary – Only first names are recorded

• Wifi– Secure and encrypted connection

• Emails – My email account requires a password

 

Are our discussions within the hypnotherapy sessions confidential?

Yes, unless I need support from my supervisor or I believe that you are about to harm yourself or another.

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What if I see you outside of a hypnotherapy session?

If we see each other outside of a session I will smile but not initiate a conversation to ensure your confidentiality.  You are welcome to share with anyone about the therapy you are receiving but I am obligated by GDPR law to ensure your confidentiality is protected.  I would request that in order to ensure the success of your treatment, that you refrain from discussing your treatment with me outside of your sessions.

 

Will you discuss information about me with other health and social care professionals?

Only with your written consent.

 

I am fully insured; hold a current DBS certificate and I am registered with The National Council for Hypnotherapy and The Association for Solution Focused Hypnotherapy.  I abide by the codes of conduct of the AfSFH and the NCH.