Privacy Policy – Sense of Self Counselling
1. Overview
Sense of Self ("we", "us", or "our") is committed to protecting the privacy of all individuals who engage with our counselling services. This Privacy Policy outlines how we collect, use, disclose, and store your personal information in accordance with the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) and the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs).
By accessing our services, you agree to the terms outlined in this policy.
2. What Information We Collect
We may collect the following types of personal information:
Identifying information: name, date of birth, address, phone number, email address.
Health information: medical or psychological history, medications, referrals, or information disclosed during sessions.
Emergency contact details.
Payment details (if relevant).
We collect this information directly from you, through forms, in conversation, or from third parties with your consent (e.g. GP or referring professional).
3. How We Use Your Information
We use your information for the following purposes:
To provide counselling and support services.
To assess your needs and develop a care plan.
To communicate with you regarding appointments and follow-up.
To maintain appropriate records for legal and professional standards.
To manage payments and administrative processes.
We will only use your information for the purpose for which it was collected or a directly related purpose you would reasonably expect.
4. Storage and Security
We store your information securely in both physical and electronic formats. We take all reasonable steps to protect your data from misuse, interference, loss, unauthorised access, modification, or disclosure.
All electronic records are stored on encrypted platforms with restricted access.
5. Disclosure of Personal Information
Your personal information will not be shared without your consent, except:
Where required or authorised by law.
If there is a serious risk to your life, health, or safety, or that of another person.
To your nominated emergency contact in an emergency.
To your referring GP or health professional, with your consent.
6. Accessing and Correcting Your Information
You have the right to access and correct your personal information. If you wish to review or update your records, please contact us in writing. We may ask you to verify your identity before processing your request.
In rare cases, we may deny access if required by law or if granting access would pose a serious threat to safety.
7. Making a Complaint
If you believe we have breached your privacy, you can make a complaint to us at the contact details below. We take all complaints seriously and will respond promptly. If you are not satisfied with our response, you may contact the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC) at www.oaic.gov.au.
8. Changes to This Policy
We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. The most recent version will always be available on our website or by request.
9. Contact Us
If you have any questions, requests, or concerns about your privacy, please contact us at:
Sense of Self Counselling
Email: una@senseofself.info
Phone: 0416 459 701