Privacy Policy
Introduction
This Privacy Policy outlines how Being Human Psychotherapy ("we," "us," "our") collects, uses, and protects your personal information in compliance with the Australian Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) ("Privacy Act") and the Australian Privacy Principles ("APPs"). We are committed to safeguarding your privacy and ensuring the confidentiality of your personal information.
What Personal Information We Collect
We may collect the following types of personal information:
Personal details: Name, address, date of birth, phone number, email address.
Health information: Medical history, mental health information, treatment notes, referral letters, and other information relevant to your care.
Payment details: Bank account or credit card details for billing purposes.
Other information: Any information you provide during your sessions or communications with us.
How We Collect Personal Information
We collect personal information directly from you when you:
Complete intake forms or other documentation.
Communicate with us via phone, email, or in person.
Attend therapy sessions.
Provide information through third parties, such as referrals from your GP or other health professionals.
Why We Collect Personal Information
We collect and use your personal information to:
Provide psychological services.
Develop, review, and improve treatment plans.
Communicate with you about appointments and treatment.
Fulfil administrative and billing requirements.
Comply with legal and regulatory obligations.
How We Protect Your Information
We take reasonable steps to protect your personal information from misuse, loss, and unauthorised access, including:
Secure electronic storage with password protection and encryption.
Physical security measures for paper records.
Regular staff training on privacy and confidentiality obligations.
When We May Share Your Information
We will not disclose your personal information without your consent, except in the following circumstances:
When required by law (e.g., mandatory reporting obligations, court orders).
To prevent or lessen a serious threat to your life, health, or safety, or the health or safety of others.
To your GP, referring health professional, or other healthcare providers as part of your treatment (with your consent).
To third parties, such as Medicare or private health insurers, for billing purposes.
Accessing and Correcting Your Information
You have the right to:
Access your personal information.
Request corrections to ensure your information is accurate, up-to-date, and complete.
To request access or corrections, please contact us using the details below. We may ask you to verify your identity before providing access or making corrections.
Retention of Personal Information
We retain your personal information for as long as necessary to fulfil the purposes outlined in this policy or as required by law. After this time, we securely destroy or de-identify your information.
Contact Us
If you have any questions, concerns, or complaints about this Privacy Policy or how we handle your personal information, please contact us at:
Being Human Psychotherapy
Phone: 0481 426 296
Email: adele@beinghumanpsychotherapy.com.au
We aim to respond to all inquiries promptly and professionally. If you are not satisfied with our response, you may contact the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC).
Updates to This Policy
We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time to reflect changes in our practices or legal requirements. The updated policy will be available on our website or upon request.
Effective Date: 10 January 2025