Bergin Psychological Services

Clinic Policy Document

Address: D02 Y037, Dublin, Ireland

This policy document outlines the ethical, legal, and professional framework for services

delivered by Bergin Psychological Services.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction

2. Professional and Ethical Standards

3. Confidentiality

4. Data Protection (GDPR Compliance)

5. Children and Young People

6. Appointments and Cancellations

7. Fees and Payment

8. Complaints Procedure

9. Policy Review

1. Introduction

Bergin Psychological Services (“the Clinic”) is committed to providing professional, ethical,

and confidential psychological and psychotherapeutic services in line with the standards set

out by the Irish Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (IACP), Irish legislation, and

European data protection regulations. This policy outlines the principles, rights, and

responsibilities that govern the provision of services at the Clinic. By engaging with the

Clinic, clients acknowledge and accept these terms.

2. Professional and Ethical Standards

All clinical work at Bergin Psychological Services is undertaken in accordance with the IACP

Code of Ethics and Practice, which sets out the professional standards required in areas of

confidentiality, professional boundaries, respect, competence, and the duty of care to

clients. Therapists maintain professional accreditation and engage in continuous

professional development and clinical supervision, as required by IACP.

3. Confidentiality

All information shared within sessions is treated as strictly confidential. Confidentiality may

only be breached under the following circumstances:

• Where there is a serious risk of harm to the client or to another person.

• Where there is a legal requirement to disclose information (e.g., under the Children First

Act 2015 or court order).

• Where the client provides informed written consent to share information with another

professional or third party.

Where possible, any potential breach of confidentiality will be discussed with the client in

advance.

4. Data Protection (GDPR Compliance)

Bergin Psychological Services complies fully with the General Data Protection Regulation

(EU 2016/679) and the Data Protection Act 2018.

• Data Collection: Personal data is collected for the purpose of providing psychological and

therapeutic services. Only information necessary for assessment and treatment will be

recorded.

• Data Storage and Security: All records are stored securely in encrypted electronic form

and/or locked physical files. Access is restricted to authorised clinical staff only.

• Data Retention: Client records are retained for a minimum of seven (7) years after the

conclusion of therapy, in line with professional and legal requirements. Records relating to

minors are retained until the client reaches 25 years of age.

• Client Rights: Under GDPR, clients have the right to:

- Access a copy of their personal data.

- Request correction of inaccurate information.

- Request deletion of records (subject to legal and ethical obligations).

- Restrict or object to processing of their data.

Requests regarding data should be made in writing to the Clinic at the above address.

5. Children and Young People

The Clinic adheres fully to the Children First Act 2015 and the Children First: National

Guidance for the Protection and Welfare of Children (2017).

• Consent for Services: Clients under the age of 18 years must have the consent of a parent

or legal guardian to engage in therapy. Where appropriate, the young person’s views will

also be sought and respected in line with their developmental capacity.

• Child Protection Responsibilities: All clinicians are Mandated Persons under the Children

First Act 2015. Where a child protection concern arises, clinicians are legally obliged to

report concerns of harm, abuse, or neglect to Tusla – the Child and Family Agency. Such

reporting obligations may override client confidentiality.

• Confidentiality with Minors: Information shared by minors in therapy is treated with

respect and confidentiality. Parents/guardians are provided with general updates, but

specific session content is confidential unless there is a risk of harm.

6. Appointments and Cancellations

Appointments are made by prior arrangement only. Cancellations require a minimum of 48

hours’ notice. Late cancellations or non-attendance may be subject to a fee.

7. Fees and Payment

Fees are agreed prior to commencement of therapy. Payment is due at the time of service,

unless otherwise arranged. Receipts are available upon request for insurance or tax

purposes.

8. Complaints Procedure

Clients who are dissatisfied with any aspect of their care may raise concerns directly with

their therapist or in writing to the Clinic. If the matter cannot be resolved internally, clients

may escalate their complaint to the Irish Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy

(IACP) in accordance with its complaints procedure.

9. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed periodically to ensure ongoing compliance with professional

standards, legislative requirements, and best practice guidelines.