This Privacy Policy explains how Coastal Connect Counselling (ABN 37 685 621 635) ("I", "Me" or "My") collect, use, store, and protect personal information, including sensitive health information, in accordance with the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) and the Australian Privacy Principles.

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I am a counselling practitioner and take confidentiality and privacy seriously. This policy applies to information collected through my website, online booking system, email communication, telehealth services, and in-person counselling sessions.

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Information I Collect

Depending on how you engage with me, I may collect:

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Personal Information

• Name

• Email address

• Phone number

• Appointment and booking details

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Health Information (Sensitive Information)

As part of providing counselling services, I may collect health information that you choose to share, including information about your mental health, wellbeing, or personal circumstances. This may be provided via email, intake processes, or during counselling sessions (in person or via telehealth).

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Website Information

When you visit my website, limited technical information may be collected, such as IP address, browser type, and website usage data through cookies and analytics tools.

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How I Collect Information

I collect information when you: 

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• Make an online booking

• Contact me by email or phone

• Attend counselling sessions (in person or via telehealth)

• Use my website

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Where reasonable and practicable, information is collected directly from you. In limited situations, information may be provided by a third party (such as a referral), and I will take reasonable steps to make you aware of this.

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Why I Collect Information

I collect and use personal and health information to:

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• Provide counselling services

• Respond to enquiries

• Manage appointments and administration

• Provide telehealth services

• Meet legal, ethical, and professional obligations

• Improve website functionality and measure advertising effectiveness (including Google Analytics and Google Ads)

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Only information reasonably necessary for these purposes is collected.

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Use and Disclosure

Your information is treated as confidential. I do not sell or trade personal information.

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Information may be disclosed where:

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• You have provided consent

• Disclosure is required or authorised by law

• It is necessary to prevent a serious threat to life, health, or safety

• It is required to provide services (for example, secure technology providers)

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Storage, Security, and Retention

Reasonable steps are taken to protect personal information from misuse, loss, unauthorised access, or disclosure.

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Client records are retained for a minimum of seven (7) years in line with legal and professional record-keeping obligations. After this period, information is securely destroyed or de-identified where appropriate.

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Overseas Storage

Some information collected through my website or online systems may be stored or processed by secure third-party service providers located outside Australia (such as website hosting, booking, or analytics platforms). These providers may not be subject to Australian privacy laws.

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Telehealth

Telehealth services are provided using secure communication technologies. While reasonable steps are taken to protect privacy, electronic communication involves inherent risks. By participating in telehealth sessions, you acknowledge and accept these risks.​​​

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Cookies and Analytics

My website uses cookies and analytics tools to improve functionality, analyse website traffic, and measure advertising performance. Cookies do not directly identify you. You can disable cookies through your browser settings if you prefer.

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Relationship with WIX

My website services are hosted by WIX, which collects and processes personal information as part of enabling our online operations. WIX may also use data from your interactions with me to improve its platform and services.

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To learn more about how WIX processes your data or to exercise your rights directly with WIX, please see here. 

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Access and Correction

You may request access to your personal information or request corrections if it is in inaccurate, incomplete, or out of date. Requests should be made in writing, and identity verification may be required.

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Complaints

If you have any concerns about how your information has been handled, please contact me directly so I can attempt to resolve the issue. If you are not satisfied, you may lodge a complaint with the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner.

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Contact

For privacy enquiries, access requests, or complaints, please contact me via the contact details listed on this website.