Privacy Policy - Maria Foster Counselling Psychotherapy & Reiki Services

I am Maria Foster, an accredited counsellor (BACP) and Reiki practitioner, offering therapeutic services in the UK. This Privacy Policy explains how I collect, use, and protect your personal data in line with the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR) and the Data Protection Act 2018.

Depending on how you interact with me, I may collect the following:

• Your name
   
• Email address
   
• Phone number
   
• Information you share during therapy or Reiki sessions
   
• Payment details (if applicable)
   
• Website usage data through cookies or analytics
   

I collect personal data when you:

• Submit an enquiry through the contact form
   
• Email or call me directly
   
• Attend a counselling or Reiki session
   
• Use or browse my website (via cookies or Google Analytics)
   

Your information helps me to:

• Provide services such as counselling or Reiki
   
• Respond to enquiries
   
• Process payments or bookings
   
• Keep professional records (as required by BACP/CNHC)
   
• Improve the experience on my website
   

Your data is stored securely using:

• Password-protected devices
   
• Locked cabinets (for any paper records)
   
• Encrypted or secure email accounts
   
• Hosting security from GoDaddy
   

I retain therapy-related data for up to 7 years, in line with professional and legal obligations.

I do not sell or share your data for marketing purposes.

I may share data in the following cases:

• With legal authorities if required by law
   
• With a professional supervisor (anonymously)
   
• With trusted third-party services (e.g. GoDaddy hosting, payment processors)
   

Under the UK GDPR, you have the right to:

• Access your personal information
   
• Request corrections to inaccurate data
   
• Request that your data be deleted (unless required by law to retain it)
   
• Withdraw your consent at any time
   
• File a complaint with the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO)
   

My website may use cookies and third-party tools (like Google Analytics) to enhance your experience and monitor site performance.

You can choose to disable cookies through your browser settings.

I may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. All updates will be posted on this page with a revised "Effective Date."

If you have questions about this policy or how your data is handled, you can contact me:

Maria Foster
Email: enquries@mariafoster.co.uk
Website: www.mariafoster.co.uk