Privacy Policy
At Somira Psychotherapy & Counselling, your privacy is our top priority. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and protect your personal information in accordance with the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs) outlined in the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth).
1. Collection of Personal Information
Personal information may include:
- Name, address, email, phone number
- Date of birth
- Emergency contact details
- Relevant medical, psychological, and background information
- Appointment and billing details
- Clinical notes and records
Information is collected only when reasonably necessary to provide counselling and psychotherapy services.
2. Sensitive Information
Sensitive information, including health details, is collected with your consent and only used for therapeutic purposes or when required by law.
3. Use of Personal Information
Your information is used to:
- Provide counselling and psychotherapy services
- Keep accurate clinical records
- Manage appointments and payments
- Communicate about your care
- Meet professional, ethical, and legal obligations
- Offer relevant resources or updates (with your consent)
4. Disclosure
Your personal information will not be shared without your consent unless:
- Required or permitted by law
- There is a serious and immediate risk to your or others’ safety
- In response to a court order or subpoena
- Mandatory reporting obligations apply
Where appropriate, limitations to confidentiality will be discussed with you.
5. Storage and Security
We are dedicated to safeguarding the confidentiality and security of your personal information. We implement various security measures, including:
- Secure storage (password-protected digital files and physical records)
- Restricted access to authorised personnel only
- Regular updates to our security protocols
Despite our efforts, we cannot guarantee the complete security of data transmitted online. Providing information is at your own risk.
6. Access and Correction
You can request access to your personal information and ask for corrections if needed. Requests should be made in writing. Access may be refused where permitted by law. An administrative fee might be payable for supplying a copy.
To protect your information, we may require identification before releasing any details.
7. Website and Online Services
Our website may use cookies or analytics to improve functionality. These do not collect clinical data. Links to third-party websites are not covered by this policy.
8. Policy Updates
This policy may be revised occasionally. The latest version will be available on our website.
9. Contact Us
If you have any questions, concerns, or complaints about this Privacy Policy or how your information is managed, please contact:
Grace Penman
Somira Psychotherapy & Counselling