Privacy Policy

This document describes the privacy policy of Jessica Rabinowicz Psychology for the management of clients’ personal information. The psychological service provided is bound by the legal requirements of the Australian Privacy Principles set out in the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth).

 

Personal information

Client information is stored securely and accessed only by Jessica Rabinowicz in accordance with the practice’s policies and procedures.  

Client information is stored using third-party providers that adhere to Australian Privacy laws. The information collected includes personal details such as name, address and contact phone numbers. As part of providing a psychological service, such as a psychological assessment or treatment, Jessica Rabinowicz will also need to collect and record other personal information that is relevant to a client’s current situation. This includes keeping a record of what happens during sessions, any psychological tests completed, and any information received from others, such as a client’s GP, lawyer or insurance company.  

 

How clients’ personal information is collected

There are a number of ways personal information is collected, including when: 

  • Clients provide information directly to Jessica Rabinowicz in the session and in writing, such as letters, emails, or text messages.

  • Other health practitioners, such as a client’s GP, provide personal information to Jessica Rabinowicz through referrals, correspondence and medical reports.

  • Receiving personal information from other sources, such as lawyers, employers or insurance companies, through correspondence or reports. 

If clients have concerns that the information recorded is not correct, they may discuss their concerns, Jessica Rabinowicz.

Purpose of holding personal information

A client’s personal information is gathered and used for the purpose of providing a psychological service. The personal information is retained in order to document what happens during sessions and enables Jessica Rabinowicz to provide a relevant and informed psychological service. This information and record-keeping are a necessary part of the services provided and guide treatment.

 

Consequence of not providing personal information

Psychologists are required to keep clear and accurate client records as part of their professional obligations.

If clients do not wish for personal information to be collected, Jessica Rabinowicz may not be able to provide the psychological service. Clients can discuss any concerns directly with Jessica Rabinowicz.

 

Accessing personal information

At any stage, clients can request access to their personal information kept on file. There may be some exceptions that impact the client’s ability to access the information, which are outlined in the relevant legislation.  

If clients would like to access their information, they can discuss it directly with Jessica Rabinowicz or request it in writing. All written requests for access to information will be responded to in writing within 30 days, and an appointment will be made if necessary for clarification purposes.  

 

Confidentiality of information

Personal information gathered by Jessica Rabinowicz will remain confidential except in certain circumstances. In most cases, any sharing of information will only occur with the client’s consent.

Jessica Rabinowicz asks for a client’s consent to share information when:

  • Sharing information with a family member, guardian or carer.

  • Discussing with others, such as a client’s GP, employer, or any agencies that may be paying for their attendance.

  • Providing a written report regarding a client’s assessment or treatment to another professional or agency, such as a client’s GP, lawyer or insurance company.

  • For disclosing the information in any other way not referenced in this document.

Psychologists are required to consult and receive supervision from colleagues from time to time. If the client’s information is shared in this context, all care is taken to de-identify their information in such a way that they remain anonymous.

 

Exceptions to confidentiality

There are times when a psychologist may release a client’s information without obtaining their consent, such as:

  • When a court requires information by issuing a subpoena, or providing information is otherwise required or authorised by law.

  • When it is required because the psychologist must make a mandatory report on a concern.

  • When the psychologist discloses information because they believe their client or someone else is at risk of serious harm.

Data breach policy

In the event that any unauthorised access, disclosure or loss of the client’s personal information occurs, Jessica Rabinowicz will activate its data breach plan and use all reasonable endeavours to minimise any risk of consequential serious harm. 

 

Requests for access and correction to client information  

At any stage, clients may request to see and correct the personal information about them kept on file. The psychologist may discuss the contents with them and/or give them a copy, subject to the exceptions in the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth).  

If the psychologist is satisfied that the personal information is inaccurate, out of date or incomplete, reasonable steps will be taken in the circumstances to ensure that this information is corrected. All requests by the client for access to or correction of personal information held about them should be lodged with Jessica Rabinowicz.

All written requests for access to information will be responded to in writing within 30 days, and an appointment will be made if necessary for clarification purposes.  

 

Concerns

If clients have a concern about the management of their personal information, they may inform Jessica Rabinowicz. A copy of the Australian Privacy Principles, which describe their rights and how their personal information should be handled, is accessible online.  

Ultimately, if clients wish to lodge a formal complaint about the use of, disclosure of, or access to, their personal information, they may do so with the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner: