Bridges Counselling - Privacy Policy

At Bridges Counselling, we are committed to protecting client, associate, and employee privacy and ensuring the confidentiality of your personal information. This privacy policy outlines how we collect, use, and safeguard your data in compliance with relevant privacy laws and regulations. Your trust is important to us, and we strive to maintain the highest standards of privacy and security in all our services. 

The below Privacy Statement will be displayed on Bridges Counseling website and in Welcome packs. Any updates to this policy will also be reflected on our website.

Privacy Statement

At Bridges Counselling, we are committed to protecting your privacy and ensuring the confidentiality of your personal and sensitive information. This privacy policy outlines how we collect, use, and safeguard your data in compliance with relevant privacy laws and regulations, including the Health Records and Information Privacy Act 2002 (NSW) and the Australian Privacy Principles under the Privacy Act 1988 (Commonwealth). Your trust is very important to us, and we take all necessary steps to maintain the highest standards of privacy and security in all our services.

Bridges Counselling will:

• Ensure our therapists, staff, and volunteers understand privacy laws and the importance of confidentiality
• Only request information that is necessary to provide the services you have requested
• Collect your information directly from you or from someone who refers you to our services
• Make sure that all clients understand why we collect personal information and how it will be used
• Use and disclose personal information only for the purpose for which it was collected, and only with your consent
• Handle sensitive information, including personal details such as gender identity, sexuality, ethnicity, cultural background, and religious beliefs, with the utmost care and respect
• Store your information securely to protect it from unauthorised access, loss, or misuse
• Keep or dispose of your information securely and in accordance with relevant laws
• Allow you to access and request corrections to your information if it is inaccurate, incomplete, or outdated
• Respond promptly to any concerns or complaints about how your information is being managed

Collection and Use of Information:

We collect personal information, including health-related information such as psychological history, treatment details, and any other information relevant to your care. This information is used to provide you with therapeutic services, maintain accurate records, and comply with legal and professional requirements.

We will only share your information with third parties where we have your consent, or if required by law. 

Access and Correction:

You have the right to request access to the personal and sensitive information we hold about you, subject to the provisions of the professional association of your therapist. If you believe any of the information we hold is incorrect, incomplete, or outdated, you can request to have it corrected. Please contact us if you would like to make such a request.

Retention of Information:

Your personal and sensitive information will be kept for as long as necessary to provide the services you have requested, and in accordance with legal requirements. Once no longer needed, we will securely dispose of or de-identify your information.

Complaints and Concerns:

If you have any concerns about how your information is being handled, or if you would like more information about your privacy rights, please speak with your therapist or contact us at manager@bridgescounselling.com.au.

If your concern is not resolved to your satisfaction, you may also contact the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC) or the NSW Privacy Commissioner.