Privacy Policy

Last updated: 25 August 2026 Data Controller: Alex — Expresso Yourself Counselling, Leicester, UK Contact: [email protected]

1. About this policy

This Privacy Policy explains what personal information I collect through this website, how I use it, how it is stored, and your rights under UK GDPR. I keep this policy under regular review.

2. What information I collect

Information you provide directly

When you contact me through the website form or by email, I may collect:

  • your name
  • your email address
  • your phone number (if provided)
  • the content of your message

This information is collected so I can respond to your enquiry and provide information about my counselling services.

Information automatically collected by WordPress

Like most websites, WordPress may automatically collect:

  • IP address
  • browser type
  • basic device information
  • pages visited

This helps ensure the website works securely and correctly.

I do not use this information to identify you personally.

3. Lawful basis for processing

Under UK GDPR, I rely on:

  • Legitimate Interest — to respond to enquiries and maintain the website
  • Contract — if you become a client, your data is processed to provide counselling services

4. How your information is used

I use your information to:

  • respond to your enquiry
  • arrange appointments
  • provide information about my services
  • maintain website security and functionality

I do not use your data for marketing. I do not sell or share your data with third parties.

5. How your information is stored

Enquiry information is stored securely in my email inbox and, if you become a client, within my practice management system. Website technical data is stored within WordPress and its security logs.

I take reasonable steps to protect your information from unauthorised access.

6. How long your information is kept

  • Enquiry emails: kept for up to 12 months unless you become a client.
  • Client records: kept according to professional and legal requirements (normally 7 years).
  • Website logs: kept for short periods for security purposes.

7. Your rights under UK GDPR

You have the right to:

  • access the personal data I hold about you
  • request correction of inaccurate data
  • request deletion of your data
  • object to processing
  • withdraw consent (where applicable)

To exercise any of these rights, contact me at the email above.

8. Third‑party services

If you use the contact form, your message may pass through standard email providers. If analytics or security plugins are added in future, this policy will be updated.

9. Links to other websites

If my website links to external sites, their privacy policies apply. I am not responsible for their content or data handling.

10. Changes to this policy

Any updates will be posted on this page with a new “Last updated” date.

Cookie Notice

This website uses only essential cookies required for security and basic functionality.

Tracking cookies

At present, this website does not use analytics or tracking cookies such as Google Analytics or Facebook Pixel.

If tracking cookies are added in future, a cookie banner will appear allowing you to accept or decline non‑essential cookies.

Essential cookies

Essential cookies may be used by WordPress to:

  • maintain website security
  • ensure pages load correctly
  • protect against spam or malicious activity

These cookies do not store personal information and cannot be disabled.

Crisis Disclaimer

I am unable to provide emergency or crisis support through this website or via email.

If you are in immediate danger or need urgent help, please contact emergency services or a crisis support organisation in your area.

Counselling is not suitable for emergency situations, and messages sent through this website may not be seen immediately.

Complaints Information (BACP‑aligned)

I aim to provide a safe, respectful, and professional counselling service. If you have any concerns about my practice, please let me know so we can discuss and resolve the issue.

How to raise a concern

You can contact me directly at: [your email]

I will acknowledge your concern and respond within a reasonable timeframe.

If you prefer to escalate your concern

As a counsellor working toward BACP accreditation, you may raise a complaint with the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) if you feel unable to resolve the issue with me directly.

Information about their complaints process is available on the BACP website.