Privacy Policy

This policy explains how Lou Aylward Psychotherapist handles your personal information.

I take your privacy seriously and am committed to complying with both the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) and the Health Records and Information Privacy Act 2002 (NSW).

Personal Information

Personal information refers to any details that can identify you, such as your name, address, phone number, email, or date of birth. Sensitive information includes details such as your health, sexual orientation, racial or ethnic origin, religious or political beliefs, or any criminal record. Because of its nature, this information is treated with extra care and confidentiality.

Why I Collect Personal Information

I collect personal information to provide effective, ethical, and appropriate therapeutic support. This information helps me understand your background and context, assess your needs, and tailor our work together. Due to my professional and legal responsibilities, clients cannot be fully anonymous. You may use a preferred name, but I must also hold your legal name as it appears on identification.

How I Collect Personal Information

I may collect your information through verbal communication in sessions, written communication (email, SMS, letter), online booking or intake forms, social media messages (where relevant), information from a guardian (for clients under 18), or referrals from other professionals involved in your care.

Storage and Security

All personal information is stored securely, either in locked physical files or on password-protected, encrypted digital systems. Only I (and, if applicable, authorised administrative support bound by confidentiality) have access to this information. Payment details are not retained once a transaction is finalised. Information that is no longer required is destroyed securely in line with legal and ethical requirements. If a data breach occurs, I will investigate promptly, take remedial action, and notify affected individuals in accordance with the Privacy Act.

Disclosure of Personal Information

Your information will remain confidential and will not be shared with others without your consent, except where it is required by law (e.g. subpoena, mandatory reporting, risk of serious harm), or disclosure is necessary to prevent serious and imminent threat to your safety or the safety of others. It is unlikely that any information will be disclosed outside of Australia.

Access and Correction

You have the right to request access to the personal information I hold about you and to request corrections if it is inaccurate or out of date. Requests can be made in writing and will be responded to in accordance with the Privacy Act.

Complaints

If you believe your personal information has been mishandled, please contact me directly to discuss your concerns. I will respond as soon as possible and work to resolve the issue.

If you are not satisfied with the outcome, you can make a complaint to the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC) via www.oaic.gov.au.

Changes to This Policy

This policy may be updated periodically. The most recent version will always be available on my website or can be provided on request.

Contact

For any privacy-related questions or concerns, please contact:

Lou Aylward Psychotherapist

Email: louaylward.emergence@gmail.com