privacy policy

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This webpage outlines the privacy policy of Katrina Czerkies Forensic Psychology regarding the management of clients' personal information. The psychological services provided are governed by the legal requirements of the Australian Privacy Principles as detailed in the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth).  

**Client Information**  

Client files are securely stored in an encrypted, cloud-based system with medical-grade security, accessible only to Katrina Czerkies Forensic Psychology. Each file contains personal information, including name, address, contact phone numbers, medical history, and other relevant details collected during the provision of psychological services. Additionally, personal information is securely maintained in an internet-based appointment scheduling system.  

**How Clients' Personal Information is Collected**  

Clients' personal information is gathered through various methods during psychological consultations. This includes instances when clients provide information directly to Katrina Czerkies Forensic Psychology via hardcopy forms, email correspondence, or through interactions with staff. Furthermore, personal information may also be received from other health practitioners through referrals, correspondence, and medical reports.  

**Consequence of Not Providing Information**  

If clients choose not to provide their personal information as outlined in this Privacy Policy, Katrina Czerkies Forensic Psychology may be unable to offer the necessary psychological services to the client.  

**Purpose of Holding Personal Information**  

Clients' personal information is collected and utilized to deliver psychological services, which encompass assessing, diagnosing, and treating the client's presenting issues. This information is retained to document session details and allows the psychologist to provide relevant and informed psychological services.  

**Disclosure of Personal Information**  

All personal information collected during the provision of services will remain confidential except in the following circumstances:  

• It is subpoenaed by a court, or disclosure is required or authorized by law; or  
• If failure to disclose the information could reasonably place a client or another person at serious risk to life, health, or safety; or  
• With the client's consent, or the consent of a legally authorized guardian, prior approval has been obtained to:  
• Provide a written report to another agency or professional (e.g., a GP or a lawyer); or  
• Discuss the material with another person (e.g., a parent, employer, health provider, or third-party funder); or  
• Engage in clinical consultation with another professional to enhance clinical services (identifying details will remain confidential); or  
• Disclose the information in any other manner; or  
• Share with another professional or agency (e.g., your GP) where such disclosure is directly related to the primary purpose for which the personal information was collected.  

Clients' personal information will not be disclosed to overseas recipients unless the client consents or such disclosure is mandated by law. It will not be used, sold, rented, or disclosed for any other purpose.  

In the event of unauthorized access, disclosure, or loss of a client's personal information, Katrina Czerkies Forensic Psychology will implement a data breach policy and take all reasonable steps to minimize any risk of consequential serious harm.  

**Requests for Access and Correction to Client Information**  

Clients may request to view and correct their personal information held on file at any time. Katrina Czerkies Forensic Psychology is open to discussing the content with clients and providing copies, subject to exceptions in the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth). If it is determined that the personal information is inaccurate, outdated, or incomplete, reasonable steps will be taken to correct this information. All requests for access to or corrections of personal information should be directed to Katrina Czerkies Forensic Psychology, and responses will be provided in writing within 21 days. An appointment may be scheduled if further clarification is necessary.  

**Concerns**  

If clients have concerns regarding the management of their personal information, they are encouraged to reach out to Katrina Czerkies Forensic Psychology. Upon request, clients can receive a copy of the Australian Privacy Principles, which detail their rights and the appropriate handling of their personal information. Ultimately, if clients wish to file a formal complaint about the use, disclosure, or access to their personal information, they may do so with the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner by phone at 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.