Confidentiality Statement
At Clarendon Counselling we understand the importance of maintaining the privacy and confidentiality of our clients. We are committed to protecting your personal information and ensuring that it is kept secure. This confidentiality statement outlines our policies and procedures regarding the privacy of your information.
Confidentiality: Your privacy and confidentiality are of utmost importance to us. All information shared via yourself and the therapists on the site will be kept strictly confidential. This includes any personal, sensitive, or private details disclosed by you.
Legal and Ethical Obligations: Our counsellors adhere to legal and ethical guidelines regarding client confidentiality. They are bound by professional codes of conduct, which require them to maintain the confidentiality of your information, except in specific circumstances outlined by law or professional standards.
Limits to Confidentiality: While we strive to maintain strict confidentiality, there are certain situations where we may be obligated to breach confidentiality to ensure your safety or the safety of others. These situations include:
a. Suspected child abuse or neglect: If there is reason to believe that a child is being abused or neglected, we are legally required to report this information to the appropriate authorities.
b. Imminent risk of harm: If you express a serious threat of harm to yourself or someone else, we may need to take steps to ensure your safety or the safety of others. This may involve notifying appropriate individuals or authorities.
c. Court order or subpoena: In some cases, a court of law may issue an order or subpoena requiring the disclosure of your counselling records or testimony. If this occurs, we will make reasonable efforts to notify you and seek legal guidance before proceeding.
d. Consultation and supervision: Our counselors may consult with their supervisors or colleagues to ensure the quality of service and seek professional advice. However, your identity and personal information will remain confidential during these discussions.
Data Security: We employ stringent measures to protect the security and integrity of your personal information. This includes the use of secure systems for record-keeping, encryption of electronic data, and limited access to confidential information by authorised personnel only.
Third-Party Disclosure: We will not disclose your personal information to third parties without your explicit consent, except in the circumstances outlined above or as required by law.
Your Rights: You have the right to request access and review your personal information that we have collected during counselling sessions. If you believe any of the information is inaccurate or incomplete, you may request its correction.
Communication Channels: While we make every effort to maintain the confidentiality of electronic communication, please be aware that no method of transmission over the internet or electronic storage is 100% secure. Therefore, we recommend exercising caution when using electronic communication channels such as e-mail.
By engaging in counselling services at Clarendon Counselling, you acknowledge that you have read and understood this confidentiality statement. If you have any questions or concerns regarding the privacy of your information, please feel free to discuss them with your counselor or our designated privacy officer.
Please note that this confidentiality statement is subject to applicable laws and regulations, and we reserve the right to make changes to it as necessary. Any updates or revisions will be communicated to you in a timely manner.
Date: Client Signature: