Privacy Policy

Last updated: 3 August 2026

At Aligned Minds Counselling, your privacy is important to me. I am committed to protecting your personal information and handling it in accordance with the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR) and the Data Protection Act 2018.

This Privacy Policy explains what information I collect, why I collect it, how it is used and the choices you have regarding your personal data.

Who I Am

Aligned Minds Counselling is a private counselling practice providing confidential counselling for adults.

Contact Details:

Aligned Minds Counselling

County Durham, United Kingdom

Email: joanne@alignedmindscounselling.co.uk

Telephone: 07523 732958

Information I Collect

I may collect the following information when you contact me through my website, email or telephone:

  • Your name

  • Email address

  • Telephone number

  • Information you choose to include in your enquiry

  • Any information required to arrange appointments

If you become a counselling client, additional personal information will be collected as explained within my counselling agreement and privacy notice provided before therapy begins.

Why I Collect Your Information

I collect your information to:

  • Respond to your enquiry.

  • Arrange appointments.

  • Provide counselling services.

  • Meet legal and professional obligations.

  • Maintain appropriate records.

Lawful Basis for Processing

Under UK GDPR, I process personal information using one or more of the following lawful bases:

  • Your consent.

  • Performance of a contract.

  • Legitimate interests.

  • Compliance with legal obligations.

Where special category health information is processed during counselling, this is handled in accordance with UK GDPR requirements for health professionals and counsellors.

How Your Information Is Stored

I take reasonable steps to keep your personal information secure.

Information may be stored securely using encrypted electronic systems and password-protected devices. Only information necessary for providing counselling services is retained.

How Long Information Is Kept

General enquiries submitted through this website will normally be retained for up to 12 months before being securely deleted unless there is a legitimate reason to keep them longer.

Client records are retained in accordance with professional, ethical and legal guidance.

Sharing Information

Your information will never be sold.

Information will only be shared where:

  • You have given permission.

  • There is a legal requirement.

  • There is a serious concern regarding risk of harm.

  • Professional consultation is required with my clinical supervisor (without unnecessary identifying information wherever possible).

Your Rights

Under UK GDPR you have the right to:

  • Request access to your information.

  • Request correction of inaccurate information.

  • Request erasure where appropriate.

  • Request restriction of processing.

  • Object to processing in certain circumstances.

  • Lodge a complaint with the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO).

Cookies

This website uses cookies that are necessary for the website to function. Additional information is available within the Cookie Policy.

Third-Party Services

This website is hosted by Squarespace.

Email services are provided by Titan Email.

These providers may process limited technical information necessary to deliver their services.

Contact

If you have any questions about this Privacy Policy or how your information is handled, please contact:

Joanne Hedley Aligned Minds Counselling

📧 joanne@alignedmindscounselling.co.uk

📞 07523 732958