 |
| I am quitting the BACP to protect your privacy |
As a psychotherapist with a masters in counselling (distinction) and psychology degree (honours), I've spent ten years building an international practice across 20+ countries. One-third of my clients are LGBTQ in places where that carries a death sentence. I have Muslim clients who are secretly atheist. Others are escaping dangerous relationships or high-stakes situations where privacy isn't just preferred—it's survival.
Recently, UK mental health associations introduced SCoPEd with new supervision requirements that fundamentally compromise client privacy.
Despite my qualifications and ten years of practice, these new rules require me to share client notes and pay £40–£180 to discuss them with another therapist. Plus £422 extra for registration fees.
I've been given two rules now, one says 18 hours per year minimum, and one that says 1 hour for every 10 hours worked. So minimum £2500 and maybe triple that. Eye-watering, isn't it?
But the cost alone is outrageous—the privacy issue is worse.
Why "Anonymised" Notes Aren't Safe
These associations claim 'anonymised' notes protect privacy. The evidence suggests otherwise.Organisations cannot be trusted to secure your privacy. Aside from cyberattacks, security leaks, and the therapists who think that leaving a client name off makes it 'anonymous', there are active bad actors.
In the US, BetterHelp was fined $7.8 million for selling client data to Facebook, Instagram and more.
So "anonymised" isn't safe—especially when you're dealing with small communities or niche situations where details alone can identify someone.
The Professional Politics Behind This
The BACP imposed these rules in February 2023 without member consultation. Members left. Board members left, including the deputy who resigned in protest. The new leadership is putting profit over member concerns.If I don't pay up, the BACP lumps me in with diploma holders so I look unqualified. The other associations are the same now.
What This Means for You
When your clients include LGBTQ individuals in countries with death penalties, senior executives who can't risk career damage, or people escaping abusive relationships, 'anonymised' supervision isn't just inadequate—it's dangerous.
My clients are private. I don't talk about them. I won't risk exposing someone's sexuality in a hostile country or accidentally revealing details that could destroy a career or endanger someone's safety.
I have ended my BACP membership rather than compromise client safety. Frankly, it's heartbreaking to be shafted by my own profession but my clients' wellbeing comes first.
My Standards Don't Change
Your confidentiality isn't negotiable, and neither are my standards. I've spent over 30 years living in countries where both suicide and LGBTQ identity were criminalised, so I understand the real-world consequences when privacy fails.If you need therapy that genuinely respects your privacy—whatever your circumstances—let's discuss how I can help. No supervision requirements. No shared notes. No compromises on your safety.
And if you like these values, please do help me by spreading the word. The industry needs to know that some of us still put clients first. If you're looking for yourself, message me today via email ellen.whyte@gmail.com or WhatsApp: +44 7514 408143 for your free 15-minute consultation.
