Privacy Policy

Last updated: October 2025

At Gateshead Therapy, your privacy matters. This policy explains how I handle your personal information — whether you contact me, attend sessions, or visit my website.

​

1. Who I am

I’m the data controller for Gateshead Therapy.

Contact details:
Email: efbarker@proton.mail
Website: www.gatesheadtherapy.co.uk

If you have any questions about this policy or how your data is used, please get in touch.

​

2. What information I collect

I may collect and store the following personal information:

• Your name, email address, and phone number when you contact me or fill out a form.

• Information you share as part of therapy sessions or intake forms.

• Notes and records related to your therapy (which may include sensitive personal data about health, emotions, and relationships).

 

3. How I use your information

Your information is used to:

• Arrange and provide therapy sessions, both in person and online.

• Keep appropriate records of sessions, as required by professional standards.

• Communicate with you about appointments or therapy-related matters.

• Send occasional updates or marketing information — only if you’ve agreed to receive them.

You can withdraw consent for marketing at any time by emailing me at efbarker@proton.mail.

 

4. Lawful basis for processing

Under the UK GDPR, I process personal data based on:

• Contract: to provide the therapy services you request.

• Legal obligation: to maintain appropriate records.

• Consent: for any optional marketing communications.

• Legitimate interests: to run my business safely and efficiently.

Sensitive (“special category”) data such as health information is processed under Article 9(2)(h) — for the provision of health and social care services.

 

5. How your information is stored

Your information is stored securely — either digitally in password-protected systems or on paper in locked storage.
I take all reasonable steps to prevent loss, misuse, or unauthorised access.

Session notes and records are kept for 7 years after your last appointment (or as required by professional insurance and ethical guidelines), after which they are securely deleted or destroyed.

 

6. Sharing your information

I will not share your personal information with anyone unless:

• You give me explicit consent;

• I’m required to by law or professional duty (for example, if I believe you or someone else is at serious risk of harm); or

• It’s necessary to communicate with your GP or another healthcare professional — and only with your consent, except in emergencies.

 

7. Your rights

Under UK data protection law, you have the right to:

• Access the information I hold about you;

• Ask me to correct or delete your data;

• Limit or object to how it’s used;

• Withdraw consent for marketing;

• Lodge a complaint with the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) if you have concerns: www.ico.org.uk

 

8. Online sessions and communications

Online therapy sessions are held via secure, encrypted platforms.
I recommend you also take steps to ensure your privacy (for example, using a private space and a secure internet connection).

 

9. Changes to this policy

I may update this policy from time to time. The latest version will always be available on my website, and significant changes will be clearly noted.

Gateshead Therapy
www.gatesheadtherapy.co.uk
Email: efbarker@proton.mail