This Privacy Policy explains how Tide Psychology manages your personal information in line with the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth), the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs), the Health Records Act 2001 (Vic), and the APS Code of Ethics.

1. Collection of Personal Information

To provide psychological services, Tide Psychology collects personal and health information, including:

• Your name, address, date of birth, and contact details

• Relevant medical, developmental, and educational history

• Information discussed during sessions, assessments, or correspondence with you and (where relevant) third parties involved in your care

We collect information directly from you where possible. If information is obtained from others (e.g., a GP, school, or allied health professional), this will only occur with your consent or when required by law.

2. Purpose of Collection

We collect your personal information to:

• Provide psychological assessment, intervention, and recommendations

• Communicate with you, your referring health professional, and other nominated parties involved in your care

• Manage administrative and billing processes

• Fulfil legal and ethical record-keeping obligations

3. Use and Disclosure of Personal Information

Your information will not be shared with third parties without your consent, except where:

• It is required by law (e.g., court order, mandatory reporting obligations)

• There is an immediate and serious risk to your safety or the safety of others

• It is necessary to report concerns about a child or vulnerable person’s wellbeing

• Professional consultation or supervision is sought (your identity will remain confidential)

4. Storage and Security

Records are stored securely in password-protected electronic systems and/or locked storage. Only authorised personnel have access.

5. Access and Correction

You have the right to request access to your personal information and to request corrections if you believe it is inaccurate or incomplete. Requests must be made in writing to Tide Psychology.

6. Retention of Records

Records are retained for a minimum of seven (7) years from the date of last service, or until the client turns 25 years old if they were under 18 at the time of service

7. Limitations of Email Communication

While Tide Psychology uses secure systems, email is not a fully secure form of communication. Please avoid including detailed sensitive information in emails where possible.

8. Concerns and Complaints

If you have concerns about the management of your personal information, please contact Tide Psychology directly. If we cannot resolve your concern, you may contact:

• Health Complaints Commissioner (Vic) – for health information or service complaints in Victoria
  Website: www.hcc.vic.gov.au | Phone: 1300 582 113

• Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC) – for federal privacy matters
  Website: www.oaic.gov.au | Phone: 1300 363 992

• Office of the Victorian Information Commissioner (OVIC) – for non-health public sector privacy issues in Victoria
  Website: www.ovic.vic.gov.au | Phone: 1300 006 842

Cancellation and Rescheduling Policy

Life can be unpredictable, and I completely understand that plans sometimes need to change. If you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment, I ask that you provide at least 24 hours' notice. This allows enough time to offer the spot to someone else who may be waiting for support, and there’s no fee for changes made before this window.

If a cancellation or rescheduling occurs within 24 hours, or you do not attend the session, a fee of $100 will apply.

This policy is in place to help maintain a consistent and respectful schedule for everyone. I’ll always do my best to be understanding, and if something unexpected comes up, please don’t hesitate to reach out.