Counselling Terms and Conditions

Confidentiality: 

To ensure open exploration of the concerns that have brought a client to therapy, Coastal Counselling and Wellbeing maintains confidentiality in accordance with the Australian Counselling Association Code of Ethics and Practice which is available at ACA-Code-of-Ethics-and-Practice-v16.pdf (theaca.net.au). 

Everything discussed in therapy sessions is confidential. It provides the client with safety and privacy and thus protects client autonomy.  However, there are situations where this confidentiality is limited.

Exceptions to Confidentiality: 

Coastal Counselling and Wellbeing must pass on any information to the relevant authorities in cases where human safety is concerned including the following cases:

• If a client discloses that they may harm themselves or another person; or
• If a client discloses that they have committed a crime; or
• If a client file is subpoenaed by a court of law; or
• The client provides the counsellor with written consent to disclose information to a third party.

If Coastal Counselling and Wellbeing feels that either a client or someone else is in danger or at risk of harm, we would first endeavour to discuss this decision with the client before breaking confidentiality.

Working with Young People (Under 18):

At Coastal Counselling & Wellbeing, creating a safe and supportive space for young people is my priority. Confidentiality plays an important role in helping teens and young adults feel comfortable to talk openly and build trust.

While parents and guardians are considered the legal client and have the right to be informed about aspects of their child’s care, I also respect the young person’s privacy. I don’t routinely share session details, unless:

• There are concerns about safety or risk of harm
• Someone else may be at risk
• I’m legally required to report certain information
   

Where appropriate and helpful, I offer parent consultations (usually every four to five sessions). These sessions give parents a chance to:

• Ask questions or raise concerns
• Receive general updates about how their child is going
• Get guidance and strategies to support them outside of sessions
   

Parent consultations are optional and can be booked separately.

Fees for young clients:

• While a young person is still in high school, the student rate applies.
• Once school finishes, session fees transition to the standard adult rate 
• You’ll always be notified before any fee changes take effect.
   

For full details on confidentiality, fees, and parent involvement, please see the consent form provided during the intake process.

Record Keeping:

Client consultation records are maintained in both paper and electronic form, accessible only by the therapists at Coastal Counselling and Wellbeing. These notes will be stored in a private and secure location and may be viewed by the client if requested. Client counselling records will be kept for a period of seven (7) years from the date of their last contact with the service. 

Email/telephone contact:

Email or telephone contact will be limited to practical arrangements only. Coastal Counselling and Wellbeing will not enter into telephone or email counselling except by prior arrangement. If faced with an emergency in between sessions, please contact the appropriate emergency services (see www.ccawb.com.au/support). In a life-threatening situation, call 000 without delay.

Email Communication & Updates:

By engaging in services with Coastal Counselling and Wellbeing, clients may opt-in to receive occasional updates or information related to the practice, including therapeutic resources, offers, and appointment reminders. You may unsubscribe at any time through the provided link in our emails. Your information will be handled with the utmost care and confidentiality.

Cancellation Policy:

Coastal Counselling and Wellbeing understands that circumstances may require appointment adjustments. Please note our cancellation policy as follows:

• Cancellation with 48 hours’ notice: Full refund of deposit
• Cancellation with less than 48 hours’ notice: Deposit will not be refunded

In the case of unexpected emergencies, cancellations will be considered on an individual basis.

Confidentiality: 

All discussions and experiences during counselling or healing sessions are confidential. Exceptions apply only where disclosure is required by law (e.g. risk of harm to self or others, or court order). 

Informed Consent for Energy Healing Modalities: 

Reiki and Peter Hess® Sound Massage are complementary therapies that support relaxation and wellbeing. They do not replace medical or psychological treatment. Clients are encouraged to seek medical advice for health concerns. 

Physical Contact:
Sessions may involve light touch or the placement of sound instruments near your body. You remain fully clothed, and your comfort is a priority throughout. 

Cancellation Policy:

Coastal Counselling and Wellbeing understands that circumstances may require appointment adjustments. Please note our cancellation policy as follows:

• Cancellation with 48 hours’ notice: Full refund of deposit
• Cancellation with less than 48 hours’ notice: Deposit will not be refunded

Unexpected emergencies can be discussed on an individual basis.

Client Responsibility:
While many clients report positive outcomes, experiences vary. You remain responsible for your wellbeing and healing process, both during and after sessions.