Privacy Policy

1. Compliance with Canadian Laws

Being Human Counselling complies with Canada's PIPEDA (Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act) and applicable provincial privacy laws. Your data is stored securely in Canada.

2. Information We Collect

• Contact details (name, email, phone)
• Session notes (with your consent)
• Payment information via secure processors
• Website usage data (cookies)

3. Your Rights

You may access, correct, or delete your data by emailing: info@bhc.org

4. Data Breach Protocol

In case of a breach, we'll notify you and the Privacy Commissioner of Canada within 72 hours.

5. Counselling Consent and Service Agreement

Please read the following information carefully. If you have any questions, please ask before signing. This document outlines the terms and understanding between you (the Client) and your counsellor, Serena of Being Human Counselling.

6. About Being Human Counselling

My name is Serena, and I am a counsellor in good standing with the appropriate professional regulatory body. Being Human Counselling is committed to providing ethical, compassionate, and professional counselling services.

"Counselling is a professional relationship that empowers diverse individuals, families, and groups to accomplish mental health, wellness, education, and career goals." — American Counseling Association

7. Important Disclaimer

Counselling is not a substitute for medical treatment, psychiatric care, or legal advice. It focuses on emotional support, personal growth, and mental wellness. If issues arise that fall outside the scope of counselling, I will refer you to an appropriate professional.

8. Benefits of Counselling

• Greater self-awareness and clarity about your values, goals, and priorities
• Improved confidence and decision-making
• Increased motivation and sense of purpose
• Growth in emotional intelligence and communication skills
• Tools for navigating change, stress, or transitions
• A clearer future vision with actionable steps
• Strengthened boundaries and relationships
• Feeling supported and empowered through challenges

9. Risks of Counselling

• Experiencing strong emotions or difficult memories
• Shifts in perspectives or relationships that may feel uncomfortable
• Adjustments required by personal change
• Outcomes that may differ from expectations

10. Client Rights and Responsibilities

Participation in counselling is voluntary. You may withdraw at any time. You are not required to participate in any technique that doesn't feel right — please communicate openly so we can adjust.

For safety, please avoid attending sessions under the influence of alcohol or drugs. If you arrive impaired, the session will be rescheduled, but the full fee still applies.

11. Appointments, Fees, and Payment

• 60-minute session: $100 (includes GST)
• 90-minute session: $145 (includes GST)

New clients receive a free initial consultation. Payments are due at the beginning of each session. Accepted methods: cash, cheque, and e-Transfer.

12. Cancellation Policy

Please provide 24 hours' notice for cancellations. Cancellations with less notice (except emergencies) will be charged the full fee. Multiple missed sessions without contact will result in the file being closed after 6 months.

13. Privacy and Data Retention

All sessions are virtual. Please ensure a quiet, private space. Records are securely stored and retained for 7 years before permanent deletion.

14. Permission to Contact by Email

Email is used for scheduling, payments, and sharing resources. It is not used for counselling sessions. You may opt out at any time.

15. Confidentiality and Limits to Confidentiality

Your information is confidential except in cases where:

• There is risk of harm to yourself or others
• A vulnerable person is at risk
• Required by court order
• Required by a third-party payer or program
• Supervision is needed (details remain anonymous)

16. Governing Law

This agreement is governed by the laws of the Province of British Columbia, Canada.

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