(08) 9754 2052 [email protected]

SOUTH WEST COUNSELLING SERVICE

Privacy Policy

Confidentiality & Informed Consent Agreement

Our service
We provide counselling and related support services. Your counsellor will explain the purpose of therapy, discuss available options, and answer any questions you may have throughout the process.
We manage personal information in accordance with the Australian Privacy Principles under the Privacy Act 1988.
Confidentiality
Your sessions and personal information are treated confidentially. Information will only be disclosed where:
  • you provide written consent;
  • there is a serious and immediate risk of harm to you or another person;
  • disclosure is required by law, subpoena, or court order.
Supervision
To support safe, ethical, and effective practice, your counsellor may discuss aspects of your case during professional supervision or peer consultation. Where possible, identifying information will be removed to protect your privacy.
Records & AI-assisted documentation
We maintain secure clinical records in compliance with privacy laws and professional standards.
We may use secure AI-assisted tools integrated within our practice management systems to support administrative tasks such as transcribing and/or drafting session notes. All records are reviewed, corrected, and approved by your treating clinician. AI tools are not used to make clinical decisions or replace professional judgement.  You can opt out of this – please discuss with your Clinician.
Storage and retention of records
Client records are securely stored using electronic practice management systems and retained in accordance with legal and professional requirements. Records are securely destroyed when no longer required to be retained.
Electronic communication
We may communicate with you by email, SMS or phone platforms regarding appointments, reminders, billing, and other service-related matters. While reasonable steps are taken to protect your privacy, electronic communication carries some inherent security risks.
Telehealth services
Where counselling is provided via telehealth, we use secure platforms where possible. Clients are encouraged to attend sessions in a private and safe environment to help maintain confidentiality.
Service scope and correspondence
Our clinic provides therapeutic support services only. We do not provide forensic reports, court assessments, medico-legal reports, or letters of support for legal, insurance, or court-related matters.
Privacy enquiries
If you have questions or concerns regarding privacy, confidentiality, or the handling of your information, please contact our practice directly.
Your consent
By submitting our intake and consent forms, you confirm that:
  • you have read and understood this information;
  • you understand how your information will be collected, stored, and handled;
  • you understand the limits of confidentiality;
  • you understand that your case may be discussed in professional supervision;
  • you consent to the use of AI-assisted administrative documentation support as described above;
  • you consent to receive counselling services under these terms.