Cookie policy
1. Introduction
This site uses cookies and/or similar technologies. Cookies are small text files stored on your device when you visit a website. They help us recognise your device, remember your preferences, and improve our services.
2. What types of cookies we use
We may use the following categories of cookies (depending on your consent):
Strictly necessary cookies: Essential for basic website functionality (e.g. enabling page navigation, storing consent settings, session management). These are loaded regardless of consent because they’re required for the website to work.
Analytics cookies / performance cookies: Help us understand how visitors use the site (e.g. which pages are visited), to improve content and performance.
Preference cookies: Remember your choices or preferences (e.g. language settings, cookie preferences).
Third-party cookies / tracking cookies: Used by external services we embed or use (e.g. analytics providers, external services) — but only if you consent.
3. Consent & your choices
- On your first visit, we display a cookie banner. Non-essential cookies (analytics, tracking, third-party) will only be set if you explicitly consent (e.g. by clicking “Accept”)
- You have the right to refuse non-essential cookies. You can adjust or withdraw consent at any time via cookie banner settings, contact us
- If you decline non-essential cookies, the website will still function; only non-essential services (e.g. analytics) may be disabled
4. Cookies We Use
Strictly Necessary Cookies
These are essential for the site to function and cannot be disabled
crumb – Helps prevent cross-site request forgery (security)
ss_cid – Identifies unique visitors
ss_cvisit – Tracks a single session
ss_cpvisit – Tracks returning visits
ss_cookieAllowed – Remembers your cookie preferences
ss_sd – Used by Squarespace for performance and security
Test (or similar) – Squarespace may use a test cookie to check functionality
Functional Cookies (Acuity Scheduling)
Used to enable the booking calendar and make scheduling appointments possible.
AcuitySchedulingSession – Maintains your session when booking
AcuityUser – Helps recognise returning bookers
AcuityTracking – Tracks booking steps to ensure the appointment process works
These cookies do not store sensitive information
Analytics Cookies (Squarespace Analytics)
Used only if Squarespace Analytics or basic site analytics is enabled
ss_lastvisit – Records the time and date of your last visit
ss_tk – Helps track website performance and usage
Marketing/Advertising Cookies
We do not use marketing or advertising cookies.
5. Third-party services
If you use third-party tools (analytics, booking systems, social plugins, etc.), their cookies or tracking technologies may also be used — we list them here to the best of our knowledge. We encourage you to review the privacy and cookie policies of those third-party providers.
6. How to change your cookie preferences
You can change or withdraw your cookie consent at any time by:
Using the cookie banner on your website to accept or decline non-essential cookies
Adjusting your browser settings to block or delete cookies
Clearing cookies from your device (this may affect site functionality)
Contacting us directly at michelleruthcounselling@gmail.com if you need help managing your preferences
7. Changes to this policy
We may update this Cookie Policy from time to time to reflect changes in the cookies we use or for operational, legal, or regulatory reasons. Any updates will be posted on this page with an updated “Last Updated” date.
Privacy policy
1. Who we are
We are Michelle Ruth Counselling. This website — michelleruthcounselling.co.uk — is operated by us.
If you wish to contact us about this policy or your personal data, email us at michelleruthcounselling@gmail.com.
2. What personal data we collect
We may collect and process the following personal data:
Information you provide voluntarily: your name, email address, telephone number, and any information submitted via contact forms or appointment requests
Technical information: IP address, browser type, device type, and website usage data (if analytics are enabled)
All data is collected only when necessary to provide our services or respond to enquiries.
3. Why we collect your data & lawful basis
We collect your data for the following purposes:
To respond to enquiries and manage bookings or therapy sessions
To provide information about our services (e.g., confirmations, updates)
To maintain, manage, and improve the website and services
Lawful basis: your consent when submitting forms, or our legitimate interest for site maintenance and communications.
4. Who we share your data with
We do not share your personal data with third parties, except where:
Required by law
You give explicit consent
We use third-party tools (e.g., Acuity Scheduling or Squarespace Analytics) — details are included in the Cookies section of this combined page
5. How long we keep your data
Data submitted via forms will be kept only as long as necessary to provide the requested service or respond to your enquiry. Maximum retention: 1 year unless otherwise required by law or requested by you.
6. Your rights
You have the right to:
Request access to your personal data
Request correction or deletion of your data
Withdraw consent at any time
Object to or restrict processing where applicable
Lodge a complaint with a supervisory authority if you believe your data has been mishandled
To exercise these rights, contact us at michelleruthcounselling@gmail.com.
7. Cookies and tracking technologies
Our website uses cookies and tracking technologies as explained in the Cookies section of this page. Non-essential cookies are only set with your consent via the cookie banner.
8. Changes to this Privacy Policy
We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. Any changes will be posted on this page with an updated “Last Updated” date.
Last Updated: 27 November 2025