Privacy policy.

Client Consent & Service Agreement

Business Name: Good Chat Counselling

Contact: hello@goodchatcounselling.com.au

Date:20th June, 2025

1. Purpose of This Form

This form explains your rights, responsibilities, and the terms under which counselling services are provided by **Good Chat Counselling**. Please read this carefully and ask any questions before signing.

By signing below, you consent to the collection of information and participation in counselling under the conditions outlined.

2. Nature of Counselling

Counselling provides a confidential, supportive environment for discussing concerns related to mental health, relationships, emotional wellbeing, behaviour, or life challenges.

You understand that:

* Counselling may involve discussion of sensitive topics

* You may choose to decline or discontinue counselling at any time

* Counselling outcomes cannot be guaranteed

3. Confidentiality

Good Chat Counselling follows the **Australian Counselling Association (ACA) Code of Ethics**, including strict confidentiality.

Your counsellor will keep your information private **except** in the following situations:

1. Risk of harm

If there is a serious risk of harm to you or another person.

2. Child safety concerns

Mandatory reporting laws may require disclosure.

3. Legal requirements

If records are subpoenaed or required by law.

4. Professional supervision

De‑identified information may be shared to ensure quality of care.

5. Your consent

Information will be shared with other professionals (e.g., GP) only with your explicit permission.

These limits will also be explained verbally during your first session.

4. Privacy & Data Handling

Good Chat Counselling handles your information in accordance with:

*The Privacy Act 1988 (Cth)

*Australian Privacy Principles

*ACA Code of Ethics

4.1 Practice Management (Cliniko)

We use Cliniko to securely store:

* Client files and case notes

* Appointment details

* Intake forms

* Contact information

Cliniko uses encrypted, privacy‑compliant systems.

4.2 Payment Processing (Stripe)

Payments are processed using Stripe, which securely and independently stores your billing details.

Good Chat Counselling does not have access to your card information.

4.3 Enquiries & Communication (Heidi)

We use Heidi, an AI notetaker, to assist with:

* Appointment bookings

* Administrative enquiries

* Scheduling

* Case note transcription

Heidi does not access clinical notes or sensitive counselling information beyond what is required for administrative support.

5. Fees, Payments & Cancellation Policy

Fees

The standard session fee is:

$120 per 60‑minute session

Payment

* Payments are processed via Stripe at or after the session.

* Invoices/receipts can be provided upon request.

Cancellations

* Less than 24 hours’ notice may incur a late‑cancellation fee of 100% of the session fee

* Missed appointments may also be charged

Please discuss any emergencies or exceptional circumstances.

6. Telehealth

For online sessions:

* Sessions use secure, encrypted platforms

* You are responsible for ensuring privacy in your own environment

* Technical disruptions may require sessions to be rescheduled

7. Access to Records

You may request access to your records in writing.

Records are retained for:

*7 years, or

*Until 7 years after a person turns 18 (for minors)

This complies with healthcare record‑keeping standards.

8. Complaints or Concerns

If you have concerns about your care or privacy:

Good Chat Counselling

hello@goodchatcounselling.com.au

If unresolved, you may contact:

*Australian Counselling Association (ACA) – Professional concerns

*Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC) – Privacy concerns