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.

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 Opt-In Clause:

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 healing sessions remain confidential, just as they do in counselling.

Informed Consent for Energy Healing Modalities: 

Sound therapy (Peter Hess® Sound Massage) and Reiki are complementary therapies designed to promote relaxation and well-being.  These modalities are not substitutes for medical treatment, and you are encouraged to seek medical advice or treatment if necessary.

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

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 experience positive results, individual experiences with energy healing therapies may vary. Clients are encouraged to take responsibility for their own well-being and healing process.