Privacy Policy

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Counselling Solution is an independent practice under the ownership of Robin Schep.

Personal Information & Confidentiality

Counselling Solution, is required by law, as detailed in the Information Privacy Act 1988, to comply with a strict code of conduct to maintain the privacy of all personal information on record.

During your session, I may take notes; these are purely for my benefit and support our session work, and remain my property and responsibility. Under the Freedom of Information Act (1992) your personal information including counselling notes, name, contact details, NDIS plan details may be made available by request.

Counselling Solution collects and records your personal information relevant to the services provided. While you do not have to give any personal information, this may limit the services Counselling Solution can provide to you. Your personal information is gathered as part of your assessment and therapy, and is kept securely. In the interests of your privacy, only I will access and use your personal information. Your personal information is stored in a manner that reasonably protects it from misuse and loss, and from unauthorised access, modification, or disclosure.

When your personal information is no longer needed for the purpose for which it was obtained, I will take reasonable steps to destroy or permanently anonymise your personal information. Except as noted below, your personal information must be retained for a period of seven years to comply with relevant Government requirements.

The purpose of professional supervision is to enhance the quality of care provided to you. I have a professional duty to consult with my supervisor from time to time, and non-identifying information about your counselling sessions may be discussed, however, these communications are confidential and your details are anonymised.

All personal information gathered during the provision of your service remains confidential and secure except when:

1. You (or your legal authority) have given consent for me to share your personal information.
2. I am under a legal obligation to share your personal information.
3. There is an immediate and specified risk of harm to an identifiable person or persons, which can only be averted by disclosing your personal information.

Requests for Access to Personal Information

Individuals are entitled to see their own personal and sensitive information held by Counselling Solution. Individuals are also entitled to change incorrect or out of date information. The request for access to personal information must be made in writing and the request will be processed in accordance with the Privacy Act 1988.

Changes to our Privacy Policy

Counselling Solution may change this policy from time to time. Any updated versions of this privacy policy will be posted on our website.

Concerns

If you have a concern about the management of your personal information, contact Robin at Counselling Solution, robin@counsellingsolution.com.au or phone 0421 224 070.

If you wish to lodge a formal complaint about the use of, or access to, your personal information, you may do so with the Office of the Federal Privacy Commissioner on 1300 363 992, or GPO Box 5218, Sydney, NSW 1042