Service Terms & Conditions
Client Confidentiality
Client confidentiality will be maintained in accordance with relevant Australian federal and state legislation and policy and in accordance with the Australian Counselling Association’s (ACA) professional ethical standards. As such, all information shared during counselling sessions will remain strictly confidential, except in specific circumstances where disclosure is required by law or ethical guidelines. These exceptions include situations where there is a risk of harm to the client or to other people, disclosure of, or suspected abuse involving a minor or vulnerable person, or when a court order mandates the release of information. Clients will be informed if such a situation arises wherever possible.
Virtual Sessions
Virtual sessions are conducted with the same level of confidentiality as in-person sessions. Clients will need a reliable internet connection, a webcam and a quiet, private space. If any technical difficulties arise during the session, I will work with you to resolve the issue or reschedule if necessary. Unless prior arrangements have been made, I give a 15-minute grace period for attending sessions on time, after that your session fee may be forfeited. Please note, if a client arrives late during the grace period, sessions will still end at the scheduled time.
Session Note-keeping
Session notes are kept confidential and securely stored in accordance with ethical guidelines and legal requirements.
Professional Boundaries
Professional boundaries are essential in maintaining a safe, respectful and ethical therapeutic relationship. I ensure clear boundaries are upheld regarding communication, confidentiality and the scope of our work together to promote a healthy and effective counselling experience.
Fees, Payments & Refunds
Fees for sessions are to be paid upfront at the time of booking. Refunds are not generally given for change of mind. If you need to discontinue counselling, a credit for unused sessions can be held for any remaining sessions. Please contact me to arrange.
Cancellation & No-show Policy
If you are unable to attend a scheduled session, please provide at least 24 hours’ notice to reschedule. Failure to do so may result in your session fee being forfeited.
Complaints Procedure
I am committed to providing high-quality counselling services. If you have a complaint about the service provided, I encourage you to discuss the matter directly with me, as I am dedicated to resolving any concerns promptly. If the issue remains unresolved, you can submit a formal written complaint, which I will review and address. If you are still unsatisfied with the outcome, you have the option to contact the Australian Counselling Association for further assistance.
Client Conduct & Responsibility
I reserve the right to refer clients to appropriate professionals if needed. I also reserve the right to terminate or discontinue services at any time, for any reason including if I deem the client to be non-compliant, disruptive or engaging in behaviour that puts themselves or other people at risk. Clients are responsible for their role in the counselling process, such as but not limited to, the responsibility to attend sessions, the responsibility to ensure they are fit for counselling and responsibility to communicate truthfully to the best of their knowledge and to adhere to the terms and conditions of service. Clients are encouraged to ask questions and seek clarification throughout the counselling process.
Scope of Practice & Disclaimers
As a registered counsellor and a level 1 member of the Australian Counselling Association (ACA) my practice is informed, meaning I draw from foundational approaches to the therapeutic frameworks I use.
It is important to note:
I am not a licensed psychologist, psychiatrist or psychotherapist. My services are not a substitute for medical advice or diagnosis or treatment of mental health conditions. If the support the client needs is outside of my scope of practice, I can recommend a referral to a suitable practitioner.
I am not a Level 1 trained IFS Practitioner or Therapist; I am an IFS informed counsellor and IFIO informed counsellor as per the required training. If the support the client needs is outside of my scope of practice, I can recommend a referral.
I provide DBT informed counselling (Dialectical Behaviour Therapy) which focuses solely on foundational skills such as mindfulness, emotional regulation, distress tolerance and interpersonal effectiveness. This counselling service does not include all components of the full DBT model such as group skills training or crisis phone coaching. If the client’s needs fall outside of my scope of practice, I can recommend a referral to a DBT-certified therapist.
This counselling service focuses on facilitating a safe and supportive environment for growth, healing and personal development, it is not intended for crisis intervention, acute mental health care or suicide risk. If you are experiencing severe distress or mental health challenges, I advise you seek support from a registered mental health professional, emergency services or by calling an appropriate helpline.
Please be advised that the information provided through this counselling service is intended for general guidance, support and personal development. While every effort is made to ensure the accuracy and relevancy of services provided, I do not guarantee specific outcomes. The client understands that counselling is a collaborative process, and that the effectiveness of the service depends on individual circumstances and other factors outside of my control.
By engaging with this counselling service, the client agrees that the counsellor is not liable for any direct, indirect or consequential damages arising from the counselling process. Clients should seek medical or legal advice when necessary.
By engaging with this counselling service clients acknowledge they are aware of the counselling process, potential risks and the benefits involved. Clients consent to participate voluntarily and have the right to withdraw at any time.
Where the term ‘recovery’ is used when describing this counselling service, I am referring to guidelines within the scope of practice set out by the Australian Counselling Association (ACA). As such, recovery is a generalised term that can pertain to a person being able to live well, participate in life and function effectively in accordance with their values, choices or circumstances by finding hope, building a meaningful life and taking responsibility and control. I as the counsellor make every reasonable effort to provide effective counselling services, but I do not make any claims or guarantees that recovery, or any other outcome can be achieved. The effectiveness of the counselling service is dependent on various factors including but not limited to the client’s individual circumstances.
The counsellor is not liable for any actions or decisions taken by clients as a result of the guidance or information provided during counselling sessions. Clients are responsible for their own actions, decisions and outcomes as part of their personal growth and development.
The counsellor is not responsible for technical issues in virtual sessions, including but not limited to internet disruptions or technical failure.
Refunds and cancellations are subject to the stated terms and conditions of service. Liability is limited to the fees paid for the service.
By engaging with our counselling services, clients are deemed to have acknowledged, understood and agreed to the terms and conditions outlined by Securely You.
