Privacy Policy
Effective Date: 19 August 2025
Practice Name: Natascha Smith Registered Counsellor PRC 0030350
At Natascha Smith Registered Counsellor PRC 0030350, your privacy and confidentiality are of utmost importance. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, and protect your personal information in line with the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA) and other applicable South African laws.
ineedacounsellor.co.za
1. Information We Collect
We may collect the following types of personal information:
- Full name and contact details (email, phone number, WhatsApp number).
- Information you provide when booking a session or completing a form on our website.
- Sensitive information shared during counselling sessions (kept strictly confidential).
- Basic technical data when you use our website (cookies, IP address, browser type).
2. How We Use Your Information
Your information will only be used for the purposes of:
- Scheduling and managing counselling appointments.
- Providing professional counselling services.
- Responding to your queries and communication.
- Administrative, billing, and record-keeping purposes.
- Improving our website and services.
We do not sell or share your personal information with third parties, except where legally required.
3. Confidentiality in Counselling
- All counselling sessions are confidential.
- Exceptions to confidentiality include legal obligations (e.g. risk of harm to self/others, child protection, court orders).
- Your personal information and case notes are stored securely and accessed only by the counsellor.
4. Data Storage and Security
- Digital records are stored securely and protected by passwords and encryption where applicable.
- Hard copy files (if any) are kept in locked storage.
- Only authorised personnel (the counsellor) have access to client records.
5. Cookies and Website Data
Our website may use cookies to enhance your browsing experience. You can disable cookies in your browser settings, but some features may not function properly.
6. Your Rights Under POPIA
You have the right to:
- Access, correct, or request deletion of your personal information.
- Withdraw consent for us to use your information.
- Lodge a complaint with the Information Regulator if you believe your data has been misused.
Contact details of the Information Regulator (South Africa):
📍 JD House, 27 Stiemens Street, Braamfontein, Johannesburg, 2001
📧 complaints.IR@justice.gov.za | enquiries.IR@justice.gov.za
7. Contact Us
If you have any questions about this Privacy Policy or how your personal information is handled, please contact us at:
📧 Email: nsmith@ineedacounsellor.co.za
📞 Phone/WhatsApp: +27 65 269 2475
⚖️ This Privacy Policy is intended to comply with the requirements of POPIA in South Africa.