It is important that clients are well informed about about kind of service they can expect and about their rights.
How will your personal information be processed?
Your personal information which you provide before and during sessions, as well as the notes of the therapist are recorded and kept in a single file. This information will usually consist of your intake form completed at the start of services as well as all other notes or reports by the therapist. This file is stored in a locked cabinet and is not accessible to any other person. Electronic mail and social media such as Whatsapp can be used to communicate regarding appointments and cancellations, but confidentiality cannot be guaranteed.
Information that is electronic in nature (video or audio) will be stored on a laptop/computer which is password protected. If possible, the files themselves will also be password protected.
No cloud storage will be used for client information.
Files that have been inactive for 5 years are destroyed by being shredded.
Cases involving any form of court work may be subject to be handed over to the Department of Social Development if the therapist should close for any reason.
How confidential is my information?
The only person who has access to any information about you is the therapist. Should administrative staff be employed to handle administration or accounts, they will be required to enter into a confidentiality agreement. The therapist will not share your information with a third party, including family members or employer. Keep in mind that there are limitations to confidentiality: in the event of suspected child maltreatment, the therapist is obligated by law to report such a suspicion to a designated social worker or police officer. If the therapist believes that you may harm yourself or another person, he may also breach confidentiality and inform third parties of the risk.