Consent

Consent for Service

Your consent is required for us to provide a psychological service. Your psychologist will explain to you the benefits and any potential risks of accessing psychological services. Please ensure that you fully understand the service information provided and ask for further information if you are unclear as to the information outlined in this consent form.

Personal Information

As part of providing a psychological service, such as a psychological assessment or treatment, we will need to collect and record personal information that is relevant to your current situation. This information is a necessary part of the services provided and guides treatment. You do not have to give all of your personal information, but choosing not to share your relevant information may mean that the psychological service may be affected.

Purpose of collecting and holding information

Your personal information is gathered as part of your assessment and treatment. Your information will be confidentially retained to document what happens during sessions and enable the psychologist to provide a relevant and informed psychological service to you.

At times, with your consent we may also gather information from others to help to inform the psychological service.  That information is treated in the same way as your personal information.

Information storage

Your information is stored securely. It is only accessed by your psychologist and as required, by authorised staff and personnel engaged by the practice, in accordance with the practice’s applicable policies and procedures (copies of which may be viewed on request). Your information is stored using secure electronic systems that adhere to Australian Privacy laws.

A more detailed description is provided in the practice’s “Privacy policy for the handling of personal information”, which can be obtained by contacting the practice. If you have concerns that the information recorded is not correct, please discuss your concerns with our administration staff or your psychologist.

Consequences of not providing personal information

Psychologists are required to keep clear and accurate client records as part of their professional obligations. If you do not wish for your personal information to be collected, we may not be able to provide the psychological service to you. Please discuss any concerns you have with your psychologist.

Accessing your personal information

At any stage, you are entitled to access your personal information kept on file. There may be some exceptions to this, which are outlined in the relevant legislation or policies. If you would like to access your information, please discuss it with us or you can request in writing.

Confidentiality of information

Personal information gathered by your psychologist will remain confidential except for certain circumstances. In most cases, any sharing of information will only occur with your consent. Our practice asks for your consent to share information when:

·       Sharing information with a family member, guardian or carer.

·       Discussing with others, such as your GP, employer, or any agencies which may be paying for your attendance.

·       Providing a written report regarding your assessment or treatment to another professional or agency, such as your GP, lawyer or insurance company.

·       For disclosing the information in any other way not referenced in this document.

Psychologists are required to consult and receive supervision from colleagues from time to time. If your information is shared in this context, all care is taken to deidentify your information in such a way that you remain anonymous.

Exceptions to confidentiality

There are times when your psychologist may release your information without obtaining your consent such as:

·       When a court requires information by issuing a subpoena, or providing information is otherwise required or authorised by law.

·       When it is required because the psychologist must make a mandatory report on a concern.

·       When the psychologist discloses information because they believe you or someone else is at risk of serious harm.

Fees

The cost of consultation is outlined in 'Fees'.  Standard consultation is usually between 45-60 minutes. The fee structure for service is as outlined by the APS schedule of fees. Payment is required on the day of attendance.

Cancellation policy

If, for some reason, you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment, please give us as least 48 hours notice. Although this clinic does not charge for late cancellation, please be mindful of those who might wish to take your appointment time. Settlement of this account is required prior to further sessions being scheduled.

How to make a complaint

If you have any concerns about your contact with our clinic, please discuss these with your psychologist, if you are able. If you would like to make a complaint, you are able to do so by contacting us either by phone or in writing to the practice.

APS Charter for Clients of Psychologists

The Charter explains your rights as a client of a psychologist.

Period of consent

This consent is provided for a specified time period. Consent will also be reviewed as required should the terms of the service change.

Consent is valid until the set date of your individual consent form.

You have a right to withdraw this consent at any time by telling your psychologist or putting your request in writing.  You cannot withdraw consent for a service that has already occurred. Your psychologist can discuss with you any implications of withdrawing consent.