This document describes the privacy policy of Positive Outcomes Psychology for the management of clients’ personal information. The psychological service provided is bound by the legal requirements of the Australian Privacy Principles set out in the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth).

 

Client Information

 

Client records are maintained in a secure manner in both an electronic document management system and paper files and are accessible only by authorised staff. These records may include personal details, contact information, medical and psychological history, and other information collected as part of providing psychological services.

 

Collection of Personal Information

 

Personal information is collected in a variety of ways, including when clients provide information directly to Positive Outcomes Psychology via forms, emails, phone calls, or during appointments. Information may also be obtained from other health professionals through referrals, correspondence, or medical reports.

 

Purpose of Collecting Personal Information

 

The primary purpose of collecting personal information is to provide psychological services, including assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care. Personal information may also be used for administrative purposes such as appointment reminders or follow-up communications.

 

Consequences of Not Providing Information

 

If a client chooses not to provide the requested personal information, this may limit the ability of Positive Outcomes Psychology to provide treatment or certain services. In some circumstances, clients may request to remain anonymous or use a pseudonym where permitted by law.

 

Disclosure of Personal Information

 

Clients’ personal information is treated as confidential and will not be disclosed for unrelated purposes. Information may only be shared when authorised by the client, when required by law, or where failure to disclose could place a client or another person at serious risk to life, health, or safety. Personal information may be shared with other professionals such as GPs, lawyers, or case managers, where relevant and appropriate. Information is not disclosed to overseas recipients unless required by law or authorised by the client.

 

Access and Correction of Personal Information

 

Clients may request access to, and correction of, personal information held by Positive Outcomes Psychology at any time. Requests can be made through email, phone, or in person, and will be responded to promptly. Where necessary, a meeting may be arranged to clarify information.

 

Data Breaches

 

Positive Outcomes Psychology has procedures in place to respond to unauthorised access, disclosure, or loss of personal information. Reasonable steps will be taken to contain and mitigate any potential harm in the event of a data breach.

 

Complaints

 

Clients who have concerns regarding the management of their personal information are encouraged to contact reception, who will direct the concern to management.

Formal complaints regarding privacy may also be lodged with the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC) via phone at 1300 363 992, online at www.oaic.gov.au/privacy/making-a-privacy-complaint, or by post to GPO Box 5218, Sydney, NSW 2001.

 

Policy Updates

 

This privacy policy may be updated from time to time. The current version will always be available on the Positive Outcomes Psychology website.