Effective date: 12 August 2025
Practice name: Specialised Counselling
ABN: 47060166323 Contact: hello@specialisedcounselling.com.au
Phone : 0418 770147
1. Purpose and Scope
These Terms and Conditions outline the rights and responsibilities of both the counsellor and client when engaging in counselling services with Specialised Counselling. By booking or attending a session, you agree to these terms.
2. Professional Standards
- Counselling services are provided in accordance with the Australian Counselling Association (ACA) Code of Ethics.
- Counselling is a supportive process and does not replace medical, legal, or financial advice.
- The counsellor will act in your best interests and maintain professional boundaries.
3. Confidentiality and Privacy
- Information shared in counselling is confidential and will not be disclosed without your consent, except where required by law, including:
- Risk of harm to yourself or others
- Suspected abuse or neglect of a child or vulnerable person
- Court orders or subpoenas
- Your records will be securely stored in compliance with the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) and Australian Privacy Principles (APPs).
- You may request access to your records by written request.
4. Appointments and Cancellations
- Sessions are by appointment only and typically last 50 minutes.
- Cancellations require at least or 48 hours’ notice to avoid a late cancellation fee of $50.00
- Missed appointments without notice will be charged the full session fee.
5. Fees and Payment
- Session fees will be confirmed at the time of booking and may be subject to change with reasonable notice.
- Payment is required at the time of booking.
- Accepted payment methods: EFT, credit/debit card, cash on the day.
- If eligible, you may claim rebates through certain health funds.
6. Communication
- Email and phone communications are monitored during business hours only.
- Counselling is not a crisis service. If you are in crisis, contact:
- Lifeline: 13 11 14
- Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636
- Emergency: 000
- DV Connect 1800 811 811
7. Online Counselling
- Online sessions are conducted via secure, encrypted platforms where possible.
- You are responsible for ensuring privacy at your location and having a reliable internet connection.
- Technical disruptions may require rescheduling.
8. Client Responsibilities
- Attend sessions on time and participate to the best of your ability.
- Be honest and respectful during sessions.
- Inform the counsellor of any changes in your circumstances relevant to counselling.
9. Termination of Services
- You may end counselling at any time by notifying your counsellor.
- The counsellor may end services if:
- The professional relationship is no longer effective
- There is a conflict of interest
- You engage in abusive or threatening behaviour
10. Limitation of Liability
- Counselling outcomes cannot be guaranteed.
- Specialised Counselling is not liable for decisions you make or outcomes that occur outside the counselling context.
11. Governing Law
These Terms are governed by the Queensland laws in Australia and the laws of the Commonwealth of Australia.
Acknowledgement
By attending a session, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to these Terms and Conditions.