Privacy & Confidentiality Policy

At Iona Counselling, confidentiality is one of the foundations of the therapeutic relationship. Creating a safe, trusted and non-judgemental environment allows clients to speak openly, knowing that their personal information is treated with the utmost respect and care.

Whether you are seeking counselling as an individual, through your employer, or as a business owner supporting your team, your sessions remain confidential.

What this means

Information you share during counselling sessions is not disclosed to employers, family members, friends, colleagues or any other third party without your knowledge or permission, except in the limited circumstances outlined below.

If your employer has arranged or funded your counselling, they will not receive details of what is discussed during your sessions. They may only receive information necessary to administer the service, such as attendance confirmation where this has been agreed in advance.

Commercial organisations using Iona Counselling can therefore be assured that employee confidentiality is respected at all times. Likewise, employees can feel confident that personal conversations remain private and are not shared with their employer.

When confidentiality may need to be limited

While confidentiality is central to our work, there are rare situations where information may need to be shared. These include where:

  • There is a serious and immediate risk of harm to you or another person;

  • There are safeguarding concerns involving a child or vulnerable adult;

  • Disclosure is required by law or by a court order;

  • Information relates to terrorism, money laundering or another legal reporting obligation;

  • Confidential discussion is required with a professional clinical supervisor to ensure the highest standards of care (all identifying details are kept to an absolute minimum wherever possible);

  • It is necessary to respond to a complaint, insurance claim or legal proceedings.

  • Wherever it is safe and lawful to do so, we will always aim to discuss any disclosure with you first.

Secure handling of your information

  • Client records are stored securely using appropriate technical and organisational measures designed to protect confidentiality. Access is limited to those who genuinely require it for professional or legal purposes.

  • Emails, appointment information and client records are handled with care and in accordance with UK data protection legislation. We continually review our procedures to ensure your information remains protected.

Professional Standards

Iona Counselling is committed to maintaining high professional and ethical standards. Confidentiality is managed in accordance with the ethical framework of the relevant professional counselling body, alongside UK data protection legislation.

Our aim is simple: to provide a space where you can speak honestly, openly and without fear that your personal information will be shared inappropriately.