Privacy Policy
Bita Riazati Psychology: Privacy Information
At Bita Riazati Psychology, your privacy matters. This information explains how your personal information is cared for and kept safe by this practice. The practice follows the Australian Privacy Principles outlined in the Privacy Act 1988 and other relevant guidelines where appropriate to ensure your trust is respected.
1. Why Your Information Is Collected
All private practices are required to collect some information about patients. Bita collects details such as your name, contact information, and relevant health history to:
- Offer tailored psychological services
- Communicate and support you effectively
- Meet professional and legal requirements
If you prefer not to receive communication via text or phone calls, please let Bita know. This may be discussed further during your session to ensure effective care.
2. How Information Is Collected
Bita collects your information in ways that prioritize your comfort, such as:
- Screening and Intake : Verbally asking questions during the initial process, with summaries recorded in your file.
- Therapy Sessions or Supervision : Listening during sessions and noting key points in your file afterward.
- Third Parties : Occasionally from other healthcare providers, like your GP, if necessary for your care.
Text messages or WhatsApp may be used to coordinate appointments, but sensitive details are avoided in these communications. Patients are responsible for ensuring the privacy of their own communications, including during video link sessions. If the session environment is not private, it will be canceled, and the session fee will still apply.
3. How Sensitive Information Is Used
Sensitive information, such as health details, is used only when:
- You’ve given clear consent
- It’s necessary for your care
- Required by law
Your trust and confidentiality are central to this process.
4. Sharing Your Information
Your personal information is shared only if:
- You have explicitly agreed
- It is required by law
Whenever possible, information is collected directly from you to maintain transparency and trust.
5. Keeping Information Secure
Bita ensures that your information is protected against misuse and unauthorized access.
- Records are securely stored and retained for at least seven years, as legally required.
- When no longer needed, records are destroyed or anonymized securely.
The practice’s website is highly secured through the agency responsible for its development, ensuring your online interactions are protected.
6. Accessing or Updating Your Information
Requests to view or access your records are carefully managed.
- Frivolous requests will be declined.
- To view or access records, you must book a session and pay for the consultation, as well as any administrative costs for preparing documents or reports.
- Legal entities typically require a subpoena to obtain clinical information.
Please submit all requests in writing, and identification may be required to ensure your privacy is protected.
7. Keeping Information Accurate
It’s important to maintain accurate and up-to-date information for effective care. If your details change, let Bita know so records can be updated promptly.
8. Policy Updates
This policy is reviewed regularly and updated as needed. The latest version is always available on the practice’s website.
9. Video Link Sessions
Bita offers video link sessions through platforms such as WhatsApp or GoogleMeet, with prior agreement after discussion during your session. Please ensure that your session environment is quiet, private, and free from interruptions.
- Video link sessions will not be recorded by Bita. Patients are asked not to record sessions or use session materials for anything other than therapy.
- The patient is responsible for identifying a private, quiet space for the session. Bita cannot guarantee the same level of privacy as in-person consultations.
- Connection problems may cause delays or unclear audio/video. Patients are encouraged to clarify any misunderstandings that arise.
- Patients must provide at least two local emergency contacts before their first video link session for safety and emergency preparedness.
10. Website Forms
If you book an appointment through the website booking form , that information will be stored on your patient file. Should you decide not to proceed with booking, your details will be deleted after 14 days.
- The website contact form and booking form are securely maintained, and all interactions via the website are highly protected by the agency responsible for its development.
- If you have any concerns or queries about the website or the forms, please contact Bita directly, and she will address them personally with you.
11. Contact Information
If you have any questions, concerns, or feedback, please reach out:
Bita Riazati Psychology
Hawthorn & Belgrave Private Practice
Email: brpsychoanalysis@proton.me
Phone: (+61) 433 781 919
For appointments, the website booking form will be kept on the patient file. If you do not book with us, the information will be deleted after 14 days. For any questions about the website or booking process, please direct them to Bita, who will address them with you directly.
This practice is committed to providing a safe, respectful, and confidential environment for everyone. Thank you for entrusting Bita Riazati Psychology with your care.