Privacy policy.

Bold Heart Counselling
Last Updated: 5th August 2025

At Bold Heart Counselling, your privacy and confidentiality are of the highest priority. This Privacy Policy outlines how your personal information is collected, stored, used, and disclosed in accordance with the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) and the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs).

1. Collection of Personal Information

We collect personal information that is necessary to provide you with safe, ethical, and effective counselling services. This may include:

  • Your name, age, contact details, and emergency contact

  • Relevant medical and mental health history

  • Notes taken during or after sessions

  • Information provided in emails, forms, or phone conversations

  • Payment and billing information

Information is collected directly from you unless it is unreasonable or impractical to do so.

2. Use of Your Information

Your personal information is used solely for the purposes of:

  • Providing counselling and mental health support

  • Communicating with you (e.g., confirming appointments)

  • Ensuring your safety and wellbeing

  • Managing administrative, billing, or legal requirements

  • Improving service delivery (e.g., anonymous feedback)

Your information will not be used for marketing without your consent.

3. Storage and Security

All personal information is stored securely using encrypted digital platforms or locked filing systems. Reasonable steps are taken to protect your information from misuse, interference, loss, and unauthorised access or disclosure.

Digital records (e.g. session notes, intake forms) are stored in secure practice management software that complies with Australian privacy laws.

4. Disclosure of Information

Your information remains confidential unless:

  • You provide written consent to share it (e.g., with a GP, support worker)

  • There is a risk of serious harm to you or another person

  • There is a legal requirement to disclose (e.g., court order, child protection)

  • It is subpoenaed by a court of law

If disclosure is necessary, every effort will be made to inform you beforehand unless legally prohibited.

5. Access to and Correction of Information

You have the right to request access to your personal information at any time. If you believe your information is inaccurate or outdated, you may request that it be corrected.

To request access or changes, please contact:
Bold Heart Counselling
Email: nguyenamanda321@gmail.com
Phone: 0422 256 968

6. Retention of Records

Client records are kept securely for a minimum of 7 years after the last session (or longer for minors, as legally required), after which they may be securely destroyed or permanently deleted.

7. Website and Online Services

If you use our website or book sessions online, please note:

  • Basic website analytics may be used to monitor site performance

  • Any information submitted through contact forms or booking systems is protected and only accessed by the practitioner

  • Third-party platforms (e.g., Halaxy, Calendly, Stripe) used for scheduling or payments have their own privacy policies

8. Complaints and Concerns

If you have any concerns about how your privacy is managed, please contact me directly. If you’re not satisfied with the response, you may contact the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC) via www.oaic.gov.au.

9. Updates to This Policy

This policy may be updated periodically to reflect changes in regulations or practice operations. The most current version will always be available on the website or by request.

Thank you for trusting me with your story — your privacy matters.
Amanda Nguyen
Registered Counsellor, ACA Member
Bold Heart Counselling
www.boldheartcounselling.com.au