Privacy Policy

At The Compassion Corner, we are committed to protecting your privacy and handling your personal information with care, transparency, and respect. This policy outlines how we collect, use, and manage your information in accordance with the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth), the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs), and the ethical codes of the Australian Counselling Association (ACA) and Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia.

1. Types of Information We Collect

In order to provide high-quality counseling services, we may collect the following information:

  • Personal Information: Name, date of birth, address, and contact details.

  • Sensitive Information: Health history, family history, and clinical notes from your sessions.

  • Administrative Data: Appointment records, billing information, and communication logs.

2. How We Collect Information

Information is collected primarily through:

  • Digital intake forms on our website.

  • Directly during your counseling sessions (face-to-face or telehealth).

  • Correspondence via email, phone, or SMS.

  • Referral documents from other healthcare providers (with your consent).

3. Purpose of Collection

We collect this data to:

  • Provide safe and effective counseling and psychotherapy.

  • Communicate with you regarding appointments and care.

  • Comply with our professional and legal obligations to the ACA/PACFA and Australian law.

4. Disclosure of Information

Your information is strictly confidential. We do not sell or trade client lists. Disclosure to third parties only occurs when:

  • Mandatory Reporting: We are legally required to report risk of harm to self/others or concerns regarding child safety.

  • Legal Obligation: We are served a court subpoena.

  • Authorized Exchange: You have provided written consent to share information with a nominated third party (e.g., your GP).

  • Professional Supervision: De-identified case details are shared with a clinical supervisor to ensure the highest standard of care.

5. Data Security & Storage

Compassion Corner takes digital security seriously:

  • Storage: We use industry-standard, encrypted practice management software that complies with Australian privacy laws.

  • Retention: In accordance with health record legislation, files are kept for 7 years after the last contact (or until age 25 for clients seen as minors).

  • Destruction: Records are securely destroyed or permanently de-identified once the retention period expires.

6. Your Rights & Access

You have the right to request access to the personal information we hold about you. You may also request corrections if you believe the information is inaccurate.

To make a request, please contact us in writing at: hello@thecompassioncorner.com.au.

7. Website "Cookies"

Our website may use "cookies" to improve your browsing experience. These do not identify you personally but help us analyze traffic patterns to make our resources more accessible. You can disable cookies in your browser settings at any time.

8. Changes to This Policy

We may update this policy from time to time to reflect changes in legal requirements or our practice operations. The latest version will always be available on this page.