Privacy and Confidentiality Policy
At The Still Space, our intention is to create a confidential and safe haven where you feel supported on your journey ahead. In order to create a sense of safety, The Still Space adheres to the following guidelines in regard to privacy and confidentiality during any and all contact with clients.
Privacy
What does Privacy mean?
Privacy means that you have control over your personal information and be free from being observed by others not involved in your care. Any notes taken during or after your session are kept private. Any personal identity data (for example your name, telephone, or email) is also kept private. You have a legal right to this privacy and The Still Space abides by laws that guide the collection and record retention of this information.
Why is my information collected and how is it used?
Your information is collected to be able to allow The Still Space to contact and communicate with you. These records are also kept for legal record- keeping and referencing purposes. Please note that we will not disclose your personal information for any purpose other than the purpose for which it was collected without your consent unless we are required to do so by law. The Still Space is a mandatory reporter.
Your email address may be used by The Still Space to advise you of other services, for example, our Monthly Newsletter or email communications as relevant. However, you can unsubscribe or opt-out at any time should you wish to do so.
How is this information stored?
At The Still Space, we ensure that your information is held securely and protected from misuse, interference, loss, and unauthorised access, modification, or disclosure.
Do I have access to this information?
You can request details of the personal information that we hold about you at any time. We will respond to any request to access information within a reasonable time.
Confidentiality
What is confidentiality?
Confidentiality is an extremely important part of our time together. This means that what is said, discussed, or agreed upon during your sessions stays confidential. No one at The Still Space, under normal circumstances, can give out any information without your consent. Our primary goal is to provide you with a safe environment in which you feel comfortable discussing your concerns.
Can you ever breach confidentiality?
In extreme circumstances, we may be required to break confidentiality, for example, if at any point during the therapeutic process, we have genuine concern or belief that a person is going to harm themselves (including yourself) or place another person or minor at risk, there is abuse or neglect or through court or other legal proceedings. If there is ever a need to reveal information, we will let you know in advance, and work with you to handle the situation in a way that respects you, your feelings, and your needs.
Confidentiality - Under 16's
Automatic confidentiality is given at 16 years and over. For those under 16 years, during the initial session, a parent or guardian will need to be present. This allows everyone involved to reach an agreement about the minor's privacy.
It is common for the primary carer to agree only to be informed if the minor is at risk. There will be an explanation at this session on how subsequent sessions will be managed, which could include sessions with or without parents present. Please note that any child under 18 will still require signed consent from a primary caregiver to attend sessions on their own.
Can you disclose information to others about your time at The Still Space?
You have the right to disclose to whomever you like about your session. If you wish us to provide information to a third party about your sessions or anything discussed within that time, then we require written permission to do so.
Privacy, transparency, trust, honesty, and your comfort are our priority for our time together.
If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to Sammy either by email hello@thestillspace.com.au or phone or text on 0420975517.