top of page

Confidentiality & Privacy

​Confidentiality Policy

Confidentiality Policy
Orlaigh Byrne Counselling and Psychotherapy
Updated February 2025

Introduction

Orlaigh Byrne Counselling and Psychotherapy ("we," "our," "us") is committed to maintaining the highest standards of confidentiality in accordance with the ethical guidelines of the Irish Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (IACP). This policy outlines our approach to confidentiality in the therapeutic relationship.

Commitment to Confidentiality

All client information, including personal details, session notes, and any communications, is treated as strictly confidential. Confidentiality is fundamental to the therapeutic process and ensures a safe and trusting environment for clients.

​Limits to Confidentiality

Confidentiality may only be breached under the following circumstances:

  • Where the client gives explicit consent for information to be shared.

  • If there is a risk of serious harm to the client or others.

  • When required by law, such as in cases involving child protection concerns or court orders.

  • If disclosure is necessary to prevent a criminal act.

In situations where confidentiality must be broken, we will endeavor to discuss this with the client beforehand, where possible.

​Storage and Security of Records

All client records are securely stored in accordance with GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018. Digital records are encrypted, and physical records are kept in a locked, secure location. Access to client data is restricted to authorized personnel only.

​Supervision and Professional Consultation

As part of ethical practice, therapists engage in professional supervision where client cases may be discussed in a manner that protects client anonymity. Supervisors are also bound by confidentiality.

Communication and Privacy

Clients' privacy is respected in all communications. Emails, phone calls, and messages will only be used for appointment scheduling and essential communications.

Client Rights

Clients have the right to:
 

  • Be informed about confidentiality and its limitations at the outset of therapy.

  • Request access to their records in accordance with GDPR.

  • Withdraw consent for data processing where legally permissible.

​Updates to this Policy

This policy may be reviewed and updated periodically in line with ethical and legal standards. The latest version will be available on request.

Working with Under 18s

Orlaigh Byrne Counselling and Psychotherapy adheres to the IACP guidelines and competencies for working with individuals under the age of 18. In addition, we comply with the Children First National Guidance for the Protection and Welfare of Children. Confidentiality for young clients is maintained in line with these guidelines, with exceptions made only in cases where there are child protection concerns, legal obligations, or risks to the welfare of the child or others. Where appropriate, we strive to involve parents or guardians in a manner that supports the best interests of the young person.

​Contact Information

For questions or concerns regarding confidentiality, please contact:

Orlaigh Byrne Counselling and Psychotherapy
Email: byrneorlaigh@gmail.com
Phone: 085 8192097

​Privacy and Data Protection Policy

Privacy and Data Protection Policy
Orlaigh Byrne Counselling and Psychotherapy
From March 2025

Introduction

Orlaigh Byrne Counselling and Psychotherapy ("we," "our," "us") is committed to protecting the privacy and personal data of our clients in accordance with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the Data Protection Act 2018 (Ireland). This policy explains how we collect, use, store, and protect your personal data.

Data Collection and Processing

We collect and process personal data in a lawful, fair, and transparent manner. The types of personal data we may collect include:
 

  • Name, contact details (phone number, email address, postal address)

  • Date of birth

  • Emergency contact information

  • GP details (if necessary)

  • Health and psychological history relevant to therapy

  • Session notes (kept in accordance with professional IACP guidelines)

  • Payment details (processed securely through third-party providers)

Purpose of Data Collection

We collect personal data to:
 

  • Provide counselling and psychotherapy services

  • Maintain records in compliance with legal and ethical obligations

  • Schedule and manage appointments

  • Respond to inquiries and provide information about our services

  • Process payments and issue invoices

Legal Basis for Processing

We process your personal data based on:
 

  • Your explicit consent

  • The necessity of data for the performance of a contract (i.e., providing therapy services)

  • Compliance with legal obligations (e.g., record-keeping requirements)

  • The protection of vital interests (e.g., in emergency situations)

Data Security and Storage

We implement appropriate technical and organizational measures to protect personal data from unauthorized access, loss, misuse, or alteration. Data is stored securely on encrypted systems, and paper records (if any) are kept in a locked, secure location. We retain personal data only for as long as necessary to fulfil the purposes outlined in this policy or as required by law- currently seven years.

​Data Sharing and Confidentiality

We uphold strict confidentiality in accordance with ethical and legal guidelines. We do not share personal data with third parties except:
 

  • With your explicit consent

  • When legally required (e.g., court orders, safeguarding concerns)

  • If there is a risk of harm to you or others, in accordance with ethical obligations

​Your Rights Under GDPR

You have the following rights regarding your personal data:
 

  • Access: Request a copy of the personal data we hold about you

  • Correction: Request corrections to inaccurate or incomplete data

  • Erasure: Request deletion of your data where legally permissible

  • Restriction: Request limitations on how we process your data

  • Objection: Object to data processing in certain circumstances

  • Data Portability: Request transfer of your data to another provider (where applicable)

    To exercise your rights, please contact us at Byrneorlaigh@gmail.com.

​Data Breach Procedures

In the event of a data breach, we will assess the risk and notify affected individuals and the Data Protection Commission (DPC) where required by law.

​Updates to this Policy

We may update this policy periodically to reflect changes in legal requirements or our practices. The latest version will be available on our website or upon request.

​Contact Information

For any questions or concerns regarding this policy or your data, please contact:
 

Orlaigh Byrne Counselling and Psychotherapy
Email: byrneorlaigh@gmail.com
Phone: 085 8192097
 

If you are unsatisfied with our response, you have the right to lodge a complaint with the Data Protection Commission (DPC) of Ireland at www.dataprotection.ie.

bottom of page