Your privacy matters

Last updated: 15 July 2026

Who I am

I am Sarah Lemiech, a counsellor practising under the name Dove Counselling. I am the data controller for the personal information you share with me. You can contact me at [email protected] or on 07792 771004.

What information I collect

I may collect your name, email address, phone number, and any information you share in enquiry forms or during sessions. This includes information you provide voluntarily when contacting me, booking a consultation, or engaging in counselling.

How I use your information

I use your information to respond to enquiries, arrange and conduct counselling sessions, and fulfil my professional and legal obligations. I do not use your information for marketing purposes, and I do not sell or share it with third parties except where required by law or my professional duty of care.

Legal basis for processing

I process your personal data on the basis of your consent (when you submit an enquiry), the performance of a contract (when we agree to work together), and my legitimate interests as a practising counsellor. Where sensitive data is involved, I rely on your explicit consent.

Confidentiality

Everything you share in sessions is held in strict confidence, in accordance with the BACP Ethical Framework. There are limited exceptions where I may be required to break confidentiality — for example, if there is a serious risk of harm to you or others, or where required by law. I will always seek to discuss this with you first where possible.

How long I keep your data

Enquiry and contact information is retained for as long as necessary to respond to your enquiry. Session notes and records are kept for seven years following the end of our work together, in line with professional guidance. After this period, records are securely destroyed.

Your rights

Under UK GDPR, you have the right to access, correct, or request deletion of your personal data; to restrict or object to processing; and to data portability. To exercise any of these rights, please contact me directly. You also have the right to lodge a complaint with the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) at ico.org.uk.

Data security

I take reasonable steps to protect your personal information from unauthorised access, loss, or disclosure. Electronic records are stored securely, and any paper records are kept in a locked location.

Contact

If you have any questions about this privacy policy or how I handle your data, please get in touch at [email protected].