Privacy Policy – Brittnee Byron Psychology

Brittnee Byron Psychology is committed to protecting your privacy and handling your personal information in accordance with the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs), the Privacy Act (1988), and the Psychology Board of Australia’s Code of Conduct (2024). Your information is treated with respect, confidentiality, and cultural sensitivity at all times.

Confidentiality & Limits to Confidentiality
All information gathered during psychological services is confidential and stored securely. Information will only be accessed by your treating Psychologist and, when relevant, your referring health practitioner.

Information may be disclosed to others only when:

 ·  Required by law, such as when information is subpoenaed by a court or legally authorised body.

 ·  There is an immediate and serious risk to your safety or the safety of another person.

 ·   You provide informed consent for information to be shared with another professional, agency, support person, or family member.

 ·   There is a reasonable expectation of disclosure as part of your care, such as updating your GP or psychiatrist.

 ·   Clinical consultation or supervision is required to support high-quality care. Identifying information is removed in these situations.

Cultural Safety & Respect
Your personal information is handled in a way that is respectful of your cultural background, identity, language, faith, sexuality, neurodiversity, disability, and lived experiences. You are invited to share any cultural needs or preferences that support your sense of safety and respect in therapy. Sharing cultural or personal information that supports your sense of safety is always optional, and you will never be asked to disclose anything you are not comfortable with.

Informed Consent
You will be informed of the nature and purpose of any assessment or intervention before it occurs. You may withdraw consent at any time without affecting your access to services. Your Psychologist will check in regularly regarding consent, especially if the treatment plan changes.

Record Keeping and Data Storage

·  Records are kept securely in encrypted, privacy-compliant systems.

·  Records are retained for 7 years after your final session, or until age 25 for clients under 18 at their last appointment.

 ·  You may request access to your record at any time. Access may be limited where required by law.

 ·  If the practice relocates or closes, secure arrangements will be made for continued storage or transfer of records.

Use of Technology & Electronic Communication
·  Electronic communication (email, telehealth, practice management software, transcription tools) is conducted through platforms that comply with the Australian Privacy Principles. 

·  Risks associated with electronic communication are minimised but cannot be eliminated entirely. 

·   A separate section in the Consent Form outlines use of any AI-assisted documentation tools (NovoNote AI Scribe).

· Third-party service providers used by the practice (such as email, telehealth platforms, or practice management systems) have their own privacy policies, and while these services are selected for their strong security and compliance standards, Brittnee Byron Psychology cannot control how these external companies store or manage data. 

Access to Your Information
You may request access to your clinical information at any time. Your Psychologist will discuss any legal limitations that may restrict access. You are encouraged to ask questions about your privacy or the management of your information at any time.

Privacy in Communication
Email and SMS are used for administrative purposes only (appointments, documents, reminders). Therapeutic discussions occur during sessions to protect your privacy. During telehealth sessions, you are encouraged to choose a private space where you feel safe and cannot be overheard. Your Psychologist will do the same.

Concerns or Complaints

If you have concerns about how your information is handled:

·  Speak with your Psychologist (hello@brittneebyronpsychology.com)

If unresolved, you may contact:

·   AHPRA – concerns about professional conduct 

·    OAIC (Office of the Australian Information Commissioner) – privacy complaints