Privacy Policy
This Privacy Policy explains how Rachael Meade Psychotherapy collects, uses, and protects your personal information. As a UKCP Accredited Psychotherapist, I am committed to maintaining the highest standards of confidentiality and data protection in accordance with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).
Professional Standards and Registration
To ensure the highest level of safety and transparency for my clients and their families, I maintain the following professional registrations:
- ICO Registration: I am registered with the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO). My registration number is ZB633189.
- DBS Status: I hold a current Enhanced DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) certificate. Certificate Number: 001859068038.
- Professional Body: I am an Accredited member of the UK Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP).
Contact Details and Data Controller
The data controller for this practice is Rachael Meade. If you have any questions regarding your personal data, please contact me directly:
Email: rachaelmeade@psychotherapyandcounselling.org
Phone: 07716492625
Address: North Tyneside Business Centre, 54a Saville Street, North Shields, NE30 1NT
What Information I Collect
I collect personal information that is necessary to provide safe and effective therapeutic support. This may include:
- Personal Details: Your name, address, date of birth, and contact information.
- Sensitive Data: Information regarding your mental and physical health, family history, and lifestyle.
- Session Records: Brief, professional notes regarding our therapeutic work together.
- Emergency Contacts: GP details and emergency contact information for safeguarding purposes.
How I Use Your Information
Your data is used primarily to provide psychotherapy services and manage our professional relationship. This includes scheduling appointments, providing therapeutic care, and processing payments.
Supervision and Confidentiality
In accordance with UKCP requirements, I attend regular supervision to ensure my practice remains safe and effective. During these sessions, I may discuss our work together, but your identity is always kept anonymous to protect your privacy.
I will not share your personal information with third parties except in the following specific circumstances:
- Safeguarding: If I believe there is a serious risk of harm to you or another person, I may be legally or ethically required to share information with relevant authorities.
- Legal Requirement: If I am required to disclose information by a court of law.
Data Storage and Retention
I store all personal information securely using encrypted digital systems or locked physical storage. In accordance with professional insurance and UKCP guidelines, I typically retain your records for seven years after our work has ended. For children, records are kept for seven years after they reach the age of 18. After this period, all data is securely destroyed.
Your Rights
Under the GDPR, you have the right to access a copy of your data, request corrections, or request the erasure of your data, subject to professional retention requirements. You may also withdraw your consent for data processing at any time.
How to Complain
If you have concerns about how I handle your data, please contact me first so we can discuss the matter. You also have the right to lodge a complaint with the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) if you believe your data rights have been breached.
Last Updated: April 2026