Policies & Guidance
1) Privacy Policy
2) Living Will Policy
3) Social Media Policy
4) Cancellation Policy
5) Code of Ethics Policy
6) Health and Safety Policy
7) Safeguarding Policy
1) Privacy Policy
I, Lauren Mead, will collect basic personal data about you for the purpose of contacting you about your counselling session. The information I will collect will be:
Your name, address, phone number, email address and next of kin.
I am registered as the Data Controller for my business with the Information Commissioners Office (ICO). Any information gathered during our sessions will be stored securely on my password protected electronic devices. Any session notes will be securely locked away and then destroyed. Your personal data will be deleted after 12 months of our working relationship ending. At any time, you have a right to request to access any information I hold on you.
If you are worried about a breach of your data please contact me in the first instance.
If you still have concerns please contact the ICO at ico.org,uk or 03031231113
2) Living Will Policy
In the event of my incapacitation or death, a nominated person will have access to my contact list and will inform my clients of the change of circumstance and advise on their next steps.
3) Social Media Policy
My counselling business advertises on social media. If you use social media, you may be aware of my professional and personal online use. It is your choice to view my posts but any comments or likes can be viewed by others visiting the page.
Individuals are free to follow me on social media, but I will never identify anyone as a client.
I will reply when appropriate to messages and comments on my posts but will not engage in any counselling. Please contact me directly if you wish to engage in such a manner.
I will not form any connection with you via my personal social media as this crosses the boundaries of a professional relationship.
4) Cancellation Policy
I require 48 hours’ notice for cancellations. Failure to do so will result in a charge of the full fee for the session.
It is very important to try and keep your appointment so that the continuity of therapy can flow, for your benefit. If you are delayed for an appointment, please call to let me know on 07922692048.
5) Code of Ethics Policy
As an accredited member of the National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society (NCPS), I am bound by their Code of Ethical Practice. Please see-
https://ncps.com/about-us/code-of-ethics
6) Health and Safety Policy
Our policy is to:
- If our remote counselling session ends abruptly in a way that raises concern for your physical wellbeing and contact with you cannot be re-established then I will contact your next of kin.
7) Safeguarding Policy
This practice is committed to providing a safe environment for staff and clients. Practising counsellors will hold an up-to-date enhanced DBS and public liability insurance.
Clients who are engaging in counselling sessions are encouraged to develop a positive sense of themselves in a non-judgemental, supportive and safe environment.
Clients will be treated with respect and suffer no discrimination due to age, race, disability, gender, religion or sexual orientation.
Clients are encouraged to voice any concerns regarding their therapy without fear of recrimination.
Confidentiality is guaranteed at all times unless:
- You have expressed to me you may harm yourself or others
- You have informed me you are involved in any criminal or illegal activity that may have safeguarding issues regarding children or vulnerable adults
- You have informed me you are involved in criminal activity regarding terrorism, money laundering, drug or people trafficking
- If I need further advice from my supervision tutor** or your GP (with your permission).
**As a member of the NCPS, I am required to have regular supervision to ensure my work is ethical and effective. Aspects of my work may be discussed in a confidential manner. My supervisor is bound by the NCPS Code of Ethical Framework