Confidentiality Commitment
At Phuong Tran (trading as Smiling Hearts And Minds), your privacy and confidentiality are paramount. Information shared during counselling sessions is strictly confidential and will not be disclosed without your written consent, except in circumstances where we are legally required to:
- Report a serious and imminent threat to life, health, or property.
- Report abuse or neglect of a young person under 18.
- Release client records when mandated by a court order.
- Confidential records of counselling sessions are securely maintained for seven years.
Protecting Your Privacy
At Phuong Tran, we prioritize your privacy and are committed to complying with the Australian Privacy Principles in the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth). We handle your personal information with utmost care to ensure confidentiality and security.
Personal Information
Personal information includes any data that can identify an individual, such as name, address, phone number, email, and date of birth. Sensitive information includes details about racial or ethnic origins, political or religious beliefs, sexual orientation, health, genetic information, family court orders, or criminal records. Misuse of sensitive information can lead to discrimination or embarrassment.
Why We Collect Personal Information
We collect personal information to assess and support our clients effectively. This information allows us to provide relevant and informed services. Due to our duty of care, clients cannot remain anonymous, although the use of a pseudonym is permitted, provided a legal name is also given.
How We Collect Personal Information
We gather personal information through various methods, including:
- Verbal communication
- Written communication via email, SMS, or letter
- Our online booking system
- Intake forms
- Social media
- Guardians of clients under 18 years old
- Referrals from GPs or other treating practitioners
Storage of Personal Information
We secure personal information using both physical and digital storage methods, accessible only by authorized individuals. We do not retain credit card or banking details after payment processing. Unnecessary information is disposed of securely in accordance with legal obligations. In case of a security breach, we will promptly investigate, take remedial action, and notify affected individuals as required by the Privacy Act.
Disclosure of Personal Information
We do not disclose personal information to third parties without your consent, except when required by law. It is unlikely that we will disclose any information to a recipient outside of Australia.
Accessing Your Personal Information
You may request access to your personal information. We may ask you to specify the information required and may charge a fee for providing access. Requests will be handled as per the Privacy Act, and access may be refused if allowed by the Act.
Integrity of Personal Information
We strive to keep personal information accurate and up-to-date. You can request updates or corrections to your information, and we will address such requests as required by the Privacy Act.
Complaints
If you believe your personal information has not been handled according to the Privacy Act, please contact us first. We will investigate and attempt to resolve your complaint promptly. If unsatisfied with the outcome, you can contact the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC) via their website at OAIC.
Changes to This Privacy Policy
We may update this privacy policy periodically. Clients will be notified of changes via email or our website.
Contact Us
For any questions about privacy matters, please contact us at:
Email: contact@phuongtran.com.au or info@theshm.com.au
Website: phuongtran.com.au and theshm.com.au
This policy outlines our commitment to safeguarding your personal information and ensuring your privacy at all times.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Confidentiality in Counselling and Psychotherapy Services:
Is everything I share in therapy confidential?
Yes, one of the fundamental principles of counselling and psychotherapy is strict confidentiality. Your therapist is ethically and legally bound to maintain the privacy of your sessions.
Are there any exceptions to confidentiality in therapy?
While confidentiality is generally upheld, there are specific legal and ethical exceptions when therapists may need to breach confidentiality. These exceptions typically include situations where there is a risk of harm to yourself or others, child or elder abuse, or when ordered by a court of law.
What happens if my therapist needs to break confidentiality?
If a situation arises where confidentiality must be breached, your therapist is obligated to discuss this with you and take appropriate steps to ensure safety and well-being.
Can I trust my therapist to keep my information private?
Yes, you can trust your therapist to maintain confidentiality. Therapists are bound by professional codes of ethics and legal requirements to protect your privacy.
Who has access to my therapy records?
Generally, only your therapist has access to your therapy records. However, in certain situations, such as when billing insurance or for legal purposes, specific administrative staff may have limited access.
Can my therapist share information with my family or friends without my consent?
No, your therapist cannot share your information with anyone, including family or friends, without your explicit consent. Your privacy is a top priority.
Is online therapy as confidential as in-person therapy?
Yes, online therapy sessions are designed to be as confidential as in-person sessions. Therapists use secure and encrypted platforms to ensure the privacy and confidentiality of your sessions.
Can I request specific privacy measures during online therapy?
Yes, you can discuss and request specific privacy measures with your therapist during online therapy to ensure you feel comfortable and secure during your sessions.
What steps can I take to further protect my privacy during therapy?
You can take steps such as ensuring you have a private and quiet space for online sessions, using headphones, and logging in from a secure and private location to enhance your privacy.
What if I suspect a breach of confidentiality by my therapist?
If you suspect a breach of confidentiality, it’s essential to address your concerns directly with your therapist. If you believe that the breach is significant or unethical, you can also contact the therapist’s licensing board or a professional ethics committee for guidance.
Confidentiality is a crucial aspect of counselling and psychotherapy, and your therapist is committed to safeguarding your privacy throughout the therapeutic process. If you have any additional questions or concerns about confidentiality, please feel free to discuss them with your therapist.