Privacy Policy
Last updated: 2/1/26
This Privacy Policy explains how I collect, use, and protect your personal information when you visit my website or contact me for counselling services.
I am committed to protecting your privacy and handling your personal data in a safe, transparent, and lawful way, in accordance with the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR) and the Data Protection Act 2018.
1. Who am I?
I am Emma Ashby, an Integrative Psychotherapeutic Counsellor offering online and In-person counselling services to adults.
Data Controller: Emma Ashby
Email: hello@elmhillrisecounselling.co.uk
2. What information do I collect?
a) Information you provide directly.
If you contact me via my website, email, phone or enquiry form, I may collect your name, email address, phone number and any information you choose to share in your message.
You are not required to share sensitive personal information via the website or during initial contact.
b) Website usage information
When you visit my website, basic technical information may be collected automatically, such as: IP address, browser type, pages visited, time and date of visit. This information is used only to understand how the website is used and to improve its functionality.
3. How do I use your information?
I use your personal information to: Respond to enquiries, provide information about my services, arrange or manage counselling sessions, and maintain appropriate records in line with professional and legal obligations.
Your data is never used for marketing purposes without your explicit consent.
4. Legal Basis for Processing Data
Under UK GDPR, the lawful bases I rely on include:
Consent – when you contact me voluntarily
Legitimate interests – to respond to enquiries and manage my practice
Legal obligation – to comply with professional and legal requirements.
5. Confidentiality and Counselling Data
Any personal information shared in the context of counselling is treated as strictly confidential, subject to legal and ethical limits.
Confidentiality may only be broken if:
· There is a serious risk of harm to you or others
· Disclosure is required by law
· There are safeguarding concerns involving a child or vulnerable adult
Where possible, these limits would always be discussed with you.
6. How Your Data Is Stored
Personal data is stored securely, either electronically or in paper form. Electronic data is password-protected and encrypted where appropriate, and only I have access to your personal information.
Data is retained only for as long as necessary and in line with professional guidance and legal requirements. Client notes are generally kept for 7 years, in line with professional guidance.
7. Sharing Your Information
Your personal data will not be shared with third parties unless:
· You give explicit consent
· There is a legal or safeguarding requirement
· It is required by my professional or insurance obligations
I do not sell or share your data for marketing purposes.
8. Your Rights
Under UK GDPR, you have the right to:
· Access the personal data I hold about you
· Request correction of inaccurate data
· Request deletion of your data (where legally appropriate)
· Withdraw consent at any time
· Lodge a complaint with the Information Commissioner’s Office ICO website: https://www.ico.org.uk
9. Cookies
This website may use essential cookies to ensure it functions properly.
Cookies do not collect personal or identifying information.
You can manage or disable cookies through your browser settings.
10. External Links
This website may contain links to other websites. I am not responsible for the privacy practices of external sites and encourage you to read their privacy policies separately.
11. Changes to This Policy
This Privacy Policy may be updated from time to time. Changes will be published on this page with an updated revision date.
12. Contact
If you have any questions about this Privacy Policy or how your data is handled, please contact:
Emma Ashby, hello@elmhillrisecounselling.co.uk