All psychologists associated with AWG Psychology adhere to the Australian Psychological Societys (APS) Code of Ethics. As such, we are ethically bound to respect your privacy. Therapy sessions with AWG Psychology are completely confidential. There are some exceptions to confidentiality. This may include:
When failure to disclose information would place you or other people at risk of harm
The information you have given to your psychologist is subpoenaed (officially requested) by a court of law
In all cases AWG Psychology therapists will discuss the appropriate steps with you before taking any action. In various circumstances
you may give your psychologist at AWG Psychology permission to communicate some information with another profession or agency (e.g., your GP, work, school, etc), when a report is required, or
when you wish some information to be discussed with another person. In any case, your psychologist at AWG Psychology will
seek your verbal and written consent to speak to other
professionals.
Privacy
AWG Psychology is committed to providing you with the highest
levels of confidentiality and service. As such, we adhere to the
requirements of the APS Code of Ethics in relation to the release
of client information and are bound by the Privacy Amendment
(Private Sector) Act 2000 and Health Records Act 2001 (Vic).
Client Information
Client files are held in a secure filing cabinet which is accessible
only to the authorised employees. Information in each file
includes personal information such as name, address, contact
phone numbers, and other information which is relevant to the
psychological service being provided.
Purpose of Holding Information
The information is gathered as part of the assessment, diagnosis,
and treatment of the person's condition, and is seen only by the
psychologist. The information is retained in order to document
what happens during sessions, and enables the psychologist to
provide a relevant and informed therapeutic service.