Privacy Policy
Last update: 20/12/2025
We respect your privacy and are committed to protecting your personal information. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, store, and share your information in line with the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) and the Australian Privacy Principles （APPs）.
What Information We Collect
- Personal details: name, date of birth, contact information.
- Sensitive information: health history, counselling notes, cultural background, or other information relevant to your care.
- Payment details: billing information for session fees.
- Website use: if you contact us online, we may collect basic technical information (e.g., IP address).
How We Collect Information
- Directly from you (in sessions, forms, emails, phone calls).
- From third parties (e.g., GP referrals, EAP providers) with your consent.
- From our website or booking systems.
Why We Collect Information
- To provide counselling and support services.
- To communicate with you about appointments and care.
- To process payments.
- To meet legal obligations.
How We Use and Share Information
- Your information is used only for counselling and related administration.
- We do not share your information without consent, except:
- When required by law (e.g., risk of harm, child protection).
- With other professionals if you agree (e.g., GP, psychiatrist).
- We never sell or trade your personal information.
Storage and Security
- Records are stored securely （locked files or encrypted systems）
- Access is restricted to authorised staff.
- Information is retained for the period required by law (usually 7 years for adults, longer for minors).
Access, Correction, Sharing Information
- Information is NOT shared without your consent.
- If collaboration with other professionals is needed (e.g., GP, psychiatrist), written/verbal consent will be sought first.
- Exceptions apply only where disclosure is legally mandated.
- You may request access to your records.
- You may ask us to correct inaccurate information.
Data Breaches
- If a data breach occurs, we will follow the Notifiable Data Breaches Scheme under the Privacy Act.
- You will be informed if your information is affected.
Online Services
- Our website may use cookies or analytics tools.
- These do not identify you personally but help improve our services.
Boundaries in Counselling
- Professional Relationship: Counselling is a professional service, not a personal or social relationship. Communication outside sessions is limited to scheduling, administrative matters, or urgent wellbeing concerns.
- Contact Outside Sessions: Phone, email, or text contact is for practical purposes only. Therapeutic discussions are reserved for scheduled sessions.
- Social media & Online Presence: To protect confidentiality, I do not accept friend/follow requests from clients on personal social media accounts.
- Dual Relationships: If we encounter each other in the community, I will respect your privacy and not initiate contact unless you do.
- Session Boundaries: Sessions run for the agreed time (e.g., 50 minutes). Late arrivals may shorten the session to ensure fairness for all clients.
- Respectful Conduct: Counselling is a safe space. Mutual respect is expected; abusive or unsafe behaviour will not be tolerated
If you have questions or concerns about Privacy, please contact mindknitcounselling@outlook.com
