Jun 9, 2025
Online Therapy
Privacy and Confidentiality in Online Therapy: What You Need to Know
Online therapy opens doors to flexible, accessible mental health care—but it also raises a critical question: how private is it?
For many, the idea of discussing personal struggles over a video call or secure messaging platform can feel vulnerable. It’s not just about being heard; it’s about being safe. Will the session be recorded? Could someone overhear? What if your therapist’s software isn’t secure?
These are important, reasonable concerns. In this article, we’ll walk through what privacy and confidentiality mean in online therapy, how they’re protected, and what you can do to make sure your sessions feel as safe as they are supportive.
WHAT CONFIDENTIALITY MEANS IN THERAPY
Confidentiality is a cornerstone of all therapy—online or in person. It means that what you say in a session stays in the session, with only a few exceptions (such as risk of serious harm).
In the UK, therapists are bound by ethical codes set out by professional bodies like the BACP and UKCP. These codes outline how client information should be handled, stored, and shared.
In online therapy, confidentiality still applies—but the methods for maintaining it change. Encryption, secure software, and clear boundaries all play a role.
HOW THERAPISTS PROTECT YOUR PRIVACY ONLINE
A responsible therapist will take the following steps to safeguard your privacy:
Use of encrypted platforms: Sessions should take place on secure, GDPR-compliant platforms (not public video apps).
Password protection and two-factor authentication: Access to client records and software is kept secure.
Private workspace: Your therapist should be in a quiet, confidential space during your session.
Clear contracts: Before therapy begins, you should receive written information about how your data will be stored and who can access it.
If your therapist hasn’t shared their approach to privacy, you’re entitled to ask.
WHAT YOU CAN DO TO PROTECT YOUR SPACE
As a client, you also play a role in keeping your sessions private:
Choose a secure device: Use your own laptop or phone—not a shared device.
Find a private location: This might be your bedroom, car, or any quiet space where you won’t be overheard.
Use headphones: This prevents others from hearing the therapist’s voice.
Close other apps: Make sure no screen recordings or third-party tools are active in the background.
These small steps can have a big impact on how emotionally safe you feel when opening up.
KNOW YOUR RIGHTS
UK clients are protected by the Data Protection Act 2018 and GDPR, which ensure that your personal and sensitive information is handled lawfully and securely.
You have the right to:
Know how your data is used
Access your records
Request corrections or deletions
Withdraw consent (where applicable)
If you ever feel uneasy, ask your therapist to explain their policies. A trustworthy professional will never make you feel awkward for wanting clarity.
Takeaway Advice
At Manchester Counselling, your privacy is our priority. All of our online sessions are conducted using secure, encrypted platforms. Our therapists are trained not just in care—but in confidentiality.
When you’re ready to talk, we make sure you can do so in a space that’s safe, respectful, and entirely your own.
Sources
Subject Areas
online therapy confidentiality UK
privacy in virtual counselling
secure therapy sessions
GDPR therapy rules UK
data protection online therapy
therapist-client confidentiality
safe online therapy space
encrypted therapy platforms
protecting your data in counselling
how private is online therapy
Manchester Counselling Editorial Team
Our editorial team writes practical mental health guidance in plain English, with care, accuracy, and a focus on what genuinely helps.
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Jun 9, 2025
Online Therapy
Privacy and Confidentiality in Online Therapy: What You Need to Know
Online therapy opens doors to flexible, accessible mental health care—but it also raises a critical question: how private is it?
For many, the idea of discussing personal struggles over a video call or secure messaging platform can feel vulnerable. It’s not just about being heard; it’s about being safe. Will the session be recorded? Could someone overhear? What if your therapist’s software isn’t secure?
These are important, reasonable concerns. In this article, we’ll walk through what privacy and confidentiality mean in online therapy, how they’re protected, and what you can do to make sure your sessions feel as safe as they are supportive.
WHAT CONFIDENTIALITY MEANS IN THERAPY
Confidentiality is a cornerstone of all therapy—online or in person. It means that what you say in a session stays in the session, with only a few exceptions (such as risk of serious harm).
In the UK, therapists are bound by ethical codes set out by professional bodies like the BACP and UKCP. These codes outline how client information should be handled, stored, and shared.
In online therapy, confidentiality still applies—but the methods for maintaining it change. Encryption, secure software, and clear boundaries all play a role.
HOW THERAPISTS PROTECT YOUR PRIVACY ONLINE
A responsible therapist will take the following steps to safeguard your privacy:
Use of encrypted platforms: Sessions should take place on secure, GDPR-compliant platforms (not public video apps).
Password protection and two-factor authentication: Access to client records and software is kept secure.
Private workspace: Your therapist should be in a quiet, confidential space during your session.
Clear contracts: Before therapy begins, you should receive written information about how your data will be stored and who can access it.
If your therapist hasn’t shared their approach to privacy, you’re entitled to ask.
WHAT YOU CAN DO TO PROTECT YOUR SPACE
As a client, you also play a role in keeping your sessions private:
Choose a secure device: Use your own laptop or phone—not a shared device.
Find a private location: This might be your bedroom, car, or any quiet space where you won’t be overheard.
Use headphones: This prevents others from hearing the therapist’s voice.
Close other apps: Make sure no screen recordings or third-party tools are active in the background.
These small steps can have a big impact on how emotionally safe you feel when opening up.
KNOW YOUR RIGHTS
UK clients are protected by the Data Protection Act 2018 and GDPR, which ensure that your personal and sensitive information is handled lawfully and securely.
You have the right to:
Know how your data is used
Access your records
Request corrections or deletions
Withdraw consent (where applicable)
If you ever feel uneasy, ask your therapist to explain their policies. A trustworthy professional will never make you feel awkward for wanting clarity.
Takeaway Advice
At Manchester Counselling, your privacy is our priority. All of our online sessions are conducted using secure, encrypted platforms. Our therapists are trained not just in care—but in confidentiality.
When you’re ready to talk, we make sure you can do so in a space that’s safe, respectful, and entirely your own.
Sources
Subject Areas
online therapy confidentiality UK
privacy in virtual counselling
secure therapy sessions
GDPR therapy rules UK
data protection online therapy
therapist-client confidentiality
safe online therapy space
encrypted therapy platforms
protecting your data in counselling
how private is online therapy
Manchester Counselling Editorial Team
Our editorial team writes practical mental health guidance in plain English, with care, accuracy, and a focus on what genuinely helps.
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Privacy and Confidentiality in Online Therapy: What You Need to Know
Manchester Counselling Editorial Team
What to Expect in Your First Online Therapy Session
Manchester Counselling Editorial Team
Finding the Right Online Therapist: What to Look For and What to Avoid
Manchester Editorial Team
Is Online Therapy Effective? What the Research Says About Virtual Counselling
Manchester Counselling Therapy Team
Categories
Anxiety
Depression
Trauma
Relationships
Online Therapy
Work Life Balance
Wellness
Manchester
Jun 9, 2025
Online Therapy
Privacy and Confidentiality in Online Therapy: What You Need to Know
Online therapy opens doors to flexible, accessible mental health care—but it also raises a critical question: how private is it?
For many, the idea of discussing personal struggles over a video call or secure messaging platform can feel vulnerable. It’s not just about being heard; it’s about being safe. Will the session be recorded? Could someone overhear? What if your therapist’s software isn’t secure?
These are important, reasonable concerns. In this article, we’ll walk through what privacy and confidentiality mean in online therapy, how they’re protected, and what you can do to make sure your sessions feel as safe as they are supportive.
WHAT CONFIDENTIALITY MEANS IN THERAPY
Confidentiality is a cornerstone of all therapy—online or in person. It means that what you say in a session stays in the session, with only a few exceptions (such as risk of serious harm).
In the UK, therapists are bound by ethical codes set out by professional bodies like the BACP and UKCP. These codes outline how client information should be handled, stored, and shared.
In online therapy, confidentiality still applies—but the methods for maintaining it change. Encryption, secure software, and clear boundaries all play a role.
HOW THERAPISTS PROTECT YOUR PRIVACY ONLINE
A responsible therapist will take the following steps to safeguard your privacy:
Use of encrypted platforms: Sessions should take place on secure, GDPR-compliant platforms (not public video apps).
Password protection and two-factor authentication: Access to client records and software is kept secure.
Private workspace: Your therapist should be in a quiet, confidential space during your session.
Clear contracts: Before therapy begins, you should receive written information about how your data will be stored and who can access it.
If your therapist hasn’t shared their approach to privacy, you’re entitled to ask.
WHAT YOU CAN DO TO PROTECT YOUR SPACE
As a client, you also play a role in keeping your sessions private:
Choose a secure device: Use your own laptop or phone—not a shared device.
Find a private location: This might be your bedroom, car, or any quiet space where you won’t be overheard.
Use headphones: This prevents others from hearing the therapist’s voice.
Close other apps: Make sure no screen recordings or third-party tools are active in the background.
These small steps can have a big impact on how emotionally safe you feel when opening up.
KNOW YOUR RIGHTS
UK clients are protected by the Data Protection Act 2018 and GDPR, which ensure that your personal and sensitive information is handled lawfully and securely.
You have the right to:
Know how your data is used
Access your records
Request corrections or deletions
Withdraw consent (where applicable)
If you ever feel uneasy, ask your therapist to explain their policies. A trustworthy professional will never make you feel awkward for wanting clarity.
Takeaway Advice
At Manchester Counselling, your privacy is our priority. All of our online sessions are conducted using secure, encrypted platforms. Our therapists are trained not just in care—but in confidentiality.
When you’re ready to talk, we make sure you can do so in a space that’s safe, respectful, and entirely your own.
Sources
Subject Areas
online therapy confidentiality UK
privacy in virtual counselling
secure therapy sessions
GDPR therapy rules UK
data protection online therapy
therapist-client confidentiality
safe online therapy space
encrypted therapy platforms
protecting your data in counselling
how private is online therapy
Manchester Counselling Editorial Team
Our editorial team writes practical mental health guidance in plain English, with care, accuracy, and a focus on what genuinely helps.
Related Articles
Privacy and Confidentiality in Online Therapy: What You Need to Know
Manchester Counselling Editorial Team
What to Expect in Your First Online Therapy Session
Manchester Counselling Editorial Team
Finding the Right Online Therapist: What to Look For and What to Avoid
Manchester Editorial Team
Is Online Therapy Effective? What the Research Says About Virtual Counselling
Manchester Counselling Therapy Team
Categories
Anxiety
Depression
Trauma
Relationships
Online Therapy
Work Life Balance
Wellness
Manchester
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Manchester Counselling can help
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