Client Information & Consent to Psychological Treatment

As part of providing a psychological service to you, Redlands Psychologists will need to collect and record personal information relevant to your current situation. This information is part of the process of assessment, diagnosis (if applicable), and treatment planning. It will include information such as your name, contact details, medical and psychological history, and other information deemed necessary for your care.

Psychological services are provided in accordance with the Australian Psychological Society (APS) Code of Ethics and comply with the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) and Australian Privacy Principles (APPs).

Nature of Psychological Treatment

Psychological treatment may include interviews, questionnaires, behavioural observations, discussions of your personal history, and psychological interventions based on evidence-based practices. Your first few sessions will involve an assessment of your needs. This may include obtaining a developmental history and identifying current difficulties, strengths, and protective factors.

You will be actively involved in developing treatment goals and plans. At any stage, you may ask questions or raise concerns about your treatment. It is also important that you work on strategies discussed during sessions outside of therapy time, as this contributes significantly to positive outcomes.

Risks and Benefits of Therapy

While therapy has been shown to be beneficial for many individuals, there are potential risks involved. During therapy, you may experience uncomfortable emotions such as sadness, anger, guilt, or frustration as you address distressing issues. However, therapy can also lead to improvements such as:

• Better relationships
• Resolution of specific issues
• Improved coping strategies
• Enhanced wellbeing

No outcome can be guaranteed, and you are encouraged to raise any concerns with your psychologist.

Your Right to Choose Your Psychologist

Therapy involves a significant commitment of time, energy, and financial resources. It is important you feel comfortable with your treating psychologist. If, at any time, you do not feel the current psychologist is the right fit for you, you are free to request a referral to another psychologist within our team or externally. Our administrative team can assist with this transition.

Privacy, Confidentiality, and Information Sharing

Your personal information will be managed in accordance with our Privacy and Confidentiality Policy. In general, your information will remain confidential and will not be released without your consent unless:

• It is subpoenaed by a court;
• There is a risk of harm to you or others;
• It is otherwise required or authorised by law.

If you are claiming through a third party (e.g., Medicare, Workcover, DVA, NDIS, EAP providers), certain information may need to be shared with these bodies (e.g., treatment plans, attendance, progress). Where appropriate, we will seek your informed consent prior to this disclosure.

Record Keeping and Data Storage

All client records are securely stored and maintained in accordance with legislative and ethical requirements. Records are typically retained for a minimum of seven years from the date of last contact, or until age 25 if the client was under 18 at the time of treatment, as per legal requirements.

Fees and Cancellations

Please refer to our Fees and Cancellation Policy provided separately. Missed appointments or late cancellations may attract a fee.

Consent Declaration

I have read and understood the information provided above and in the Privacy and Confidentiality Policy. I understand the nature, purpose, and risks of psychological services and give my informed consent to participate in treatment with [Psychologist’s Name] at Redlands Psychologists.

I understand that I can withdraw from treatment at any time and can request clarification about any aspect of my treatment, privacy, or the consent process.

I also understand that, if relevant, information may be shared with third parties (e.g., GP, Medicare, Workcover) with my informed consent, and I can specify limits on what is disclosed.