Privacy Policy

Client Information

Client information is stored electronically in a password protected data cloud which is accessible only to authorised employees. The information on each file includes personal information such as name, address, contact phone numbers, medical history and other personal information collected as part of providing the psychological services.

How clients’ personal information is collected

A client’s personal information is collected in a number of different ways including when the client provides information directly to Blackbird Psychology using hardcopy and online forms, correspondence via email, when the client interacts directly with Blackbird Psychology employees and associates and when other health practitioners provide personal information to Blackbird psychology via referrals, correspondence and medical reports.

Consequence of not providing personal information

If the client does not wish for their personal information to be collected in a way anticipated by this Privacy Policy, Blackbird Psychology may not be in a position to provide the psychological service to the client.

Purpose of holding personal information

A client’s personal information is gathered and used for the purpose of providing psychological services, which includes assessing, diagnosing and treating a client’s presenting issue. The personal information is retained electronically in order to document what happens during sessions and enables the psychologist to provide a relevant and informed psychological service.

Disclosure of personal information

Clients’ personal information will not be disclosed except when:

1.       It is subpoenaed by a court; or

2.       Failure to disclose the information would in the reasonable belief of Blackbird Psychology place a client or another person at serious risk to life, health or safety; or

3.       The client’s prior written approval has been obtained to:

a.       Provide a written report to another professional or agency e.g. a GP or a lawyer; or

b.       Discuss the material with another person, e.g. a parent, employer or health provider; or

c.       Disclose the information in another way; or

4.       Disclosure is otherwise required by law.

A client’s personal information will not be used, sold, rented or disclosed for any other purpose.

Requests for access and correction to client information

At any stage clients may request to see and correct the personal information about them kept on file. The psychologist may discuss the contents with them and/or give them a copy, subject to the exceptions in the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth). If satisfied that personal information is inaccurate, out of date or incomplete, reasonable steps will be taken in the circumstances to ensure that this information is corrected. All requests by clients for access to or correction of personal information held about them should be lodged with Blackbird psychology. These requests will be responded to in writing within 30 days, and an appointment will be made if necessary, for clarification purposes.

Concerns

If clients have a concern about the management of their personal information, they may inform The Privacy Officer, Blackbird Psychology, who can be reached by email (Admin@blackbirdpsychology.com.au). Upon request they can obtain a copy of the Australian Privacy Principles, which describe their rights and how their personal information should be handled. Ultimately if clients wish to lodge a formal complaint about the use of, disclosure of, or access to, their personal information, they may do so with the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner by phone on 1300 363 992, online at http://www.oaic.gov.au/privacy/making-a-privacy-complaint or by post to: Office of the Australian Information Commissioner, GPO Box 5218, Sydney, NSW 2001.