CONFIDENTIALITY AND ETHICS

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The relationship between the therapist and client is confidential. This means that family members, parents, adult children, or workplaces are not entitled to information about the client, even if they are paying for the sessions. There are certain exceptions to this rule, such as if I receive information indicating that the client or others are at risk of harm. In such cases, I may need to break confidentiality in order to take necessary action. However, I will always try to discuss this with the client before doing so. In some cases, health professionals may need to share information about their mutual client (e.g. with a GP or psychiatrist). If this is necessary, I will also attempt to speak with the client beforehand. For more information on confidentiality in healthcare you can look at the Health Privacy Toolkit.

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I work in accordance with the Code of Ethics for psychologists working in Aotearoa/New Zealand. For more information on the governance on psychologists in New Zealand please see the New Zealand Psychologists Board.

 

I take handwritten notes during sessions. These are stored electronically for 10 years in accordance with the Health (Retention of Health Information) Regulations 1996. Clients are welcome to access their records on request.