Privacy Policy for State of Mind Counselling Services
- Introduction
This Privacy Policy applies to all counselling services provided by State of Mind Counselling Services (hereafter referred to as “the Service”), which includes counselling for young people, families, and individuals. State of Mind Counselling Services is committed to protecting the privacy and confidentiality of personal information in accordance with the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs) and relevant laws.
- Collection of Personal Information
The Service collects personal information necessary for providing effective counselling services. This may include, but is not limited to:
- Names, addresses, phone numbers, and email addresses
- Date of birth, gender, and cultural background
- Medical history and mental health information
- Family and relationship details
- Educational and employment history
For children and young people under the age of 18, parental or guardian consent will be obtained before collecting any personal information.
- Use of Personal Information
All personal information collected by the Service is used to:
- Provide counselling and support services
- Conduct assessments and develop treatment plans
- Record information from counselling sessions for case note purposes
- Communicate with clients, their families, and other professionals
- Manage administrative and clinical records
To ensure the accuracy and completeness of case notes, the Service may use advanced technologies to assist in the recording of information during counselling sessions. Personal information shall be used only for the purposes for which it was collected or for directly related purposes unless consent is obtained from the client or as required by law.
- Disclosure of Personal Information
The Service may disclose personal information to:
- Healthcare providers and professionals involved in the client’s care
- Family members or guardians, with the client’s consent
- Regulatory bodies, as required by law
- Third-party service providers engaged to perform functions on behalf of the Service (e.g., IT, legal, or administrative services)
All third-party service providers are required to comply with the Service’s privacy standards.
- Security and Storage of Personal Information
State of Mind Counselling Services is committed to ensuring that personal information is kept secure and confidential. Measures include but are not limited to:
- Securing physical documents in locked cabinets
- Protecting electronic records with secure passwords and encryption
- Limiting access to personal information to authorized personnel only
- Regularly reviewing security measures to protect against unauthorized access, use or disclosure
- Access and Correction
Clients have the right to request access to their personal information and to seek correction of any inaccuracies. Requests for access or correction should be made in writing to the Service’s Privacy Officer. The Service will respond to such requests within a reasonable timeframe and in accordance with the APPs.
- Complaints and Enquiries
Any complaints or enquiries regarding the handling of personal information should be directed to the Service’s Privacy Officer. The Service will investigate and respond to complaints in a timely manner and in accordance with privacy laws.
- Changes to Our Privacy Policy
State of Mind Counselling Services may update this Privacy Policy from time to time to reflect changes in legislation or best practice. Clients will be notified of any significant changes through appropriate channels.
Contact Details
For any questions, concerns, or requests related to this Privacy Policy, please contact the Service:
Privacy Officer State of Mind Counselling Services