Security Online
My computer is protected by Microsoft antivirus and firewall software, and the nature of computers mean that good security measures need to be taken to ensure your ongoing security and confidentiality online. My computer is password protected, and this is changed regularly. Details are known only to me. If I leave my computer for longer than 5 minutes I am asked to re-type my password.
How I maintain your confidentiality online
Maintaining confidentiality is always very important, and so I am careful to protect this. As a BACP Senior Accredited Counsellor I practice in accordance with the BACP Guidelines for Online Counselling and Psychotherapy.
While I am working with you I keep copies of your work on my password protected personal computer. When counselling work has been completed, all personal data is removed from my computer. I then retain hard copies of our correspondence. These do not contain any identifying details and are held securely, as I would do with face-to-face clients. This information is stored for five years to comply with Data Protection legislation.
I regularly attend supervision, this is to make sure that I am working to the best of my ability and working within the BACP code of ethics. But please be assured that none of our exchanges or any identifying information will be circulated to any third parties. The only time that I would consider breaking confidentiality is when I feel that a client may be in danger of hurting themselves or someone else. In that case, wherever possible I would always try to work with you before I go down that route.
Your own security online
If you are unable to password protect your computer, you could create a new folder for counselling and protect that with a password. You could also use a memory stick to save data securely. These can be protected with a password. Other options include using a portable flash drive (a USB drive) with an external hard drive.
Your own online security at work
If you are using a computer at work, please note that by law your employer has the right to view all information on your computer. Under these circumstances you may prefer to take the following measures: use an external secure server such as Hushmail, ask that your privacy is respected, use an internet cafe or library, or use a friend’s computer to access online services.
Hushmail - secure e-mail
The BACP ethical code for online counselling requires that I conduct all my e-mail counselling using secure encrypted e-mail, so I always use Hushmail. To set this up, you will firstly need to create an email address at www.hushmail.com. This is straightforward, and once you have this address, you will need to send it to me. I will let you know my Hushmail address, and then we can get started!
Skype - secure audio and text
The BACP requires that counsellors use secure services only. I use Skype for live text chat, audio and webcam counselling sessions. Skype encrypts our messages so that they cannot be read if they are intercepted between my computer and yours. Text chat can be discreet if you're not in a private room. You will need to download Skype at www.skype.com. I will also need you to send me your Skype address. If you plan to use a webcam, this will automatically be opened by Skype. If someone else has access to your computer it is important to remember to log out of Skype when it is no longer required.