Your Information & How It’s Protected

I take your privacy seriously. Any personal information you share via this website or in counselling is treated with care and confidentiality. I follow the Privacy Act 1988, the Health Records Act 2001, and the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs), and aim to make this policy clear, respectful, and easy to navigate.

Using this website may involve sharing personal data (like your name or email) or technical data (like your browser type or visit time). This policy explains what’s collected, why it’s needed, and how it’s protected.

Please note: while I take every reasonable step to safeguard your data, internet-based communication (like email) can carry risks. Complete protection from third-party access can’t be guaranteed.

Website Data & Squarespace

This website is hosted on Squarespace, which may automatically collect technical data to help the site run smoothly. This includes things like your browser type, operating system, and IP address. Some data is collected when you fill out a form; other data is collected automatically when you visit the site.

Data is collected to:

• Ensure the website functions properly

• Understand how visitors use the site

• Improve accessibility and user experience

Cookies

Squarespace uses cookies—small text files stored on your device—to support site functionality.

• Most are “session cookies” and disappear after your visit

• Some may stay on your device to help the site remember you

• You can adjust your browser settings to accept, reject, or delete cookies

• Disabling cookies may affect how the site works

Cookies essential to site function are stored based on legitimate interest. Analytics cookies are anonymised and treated separately.

Server Logs

Squarespace may store technical information in server logs, such as:

Browser type and version

• Operating system

• Referrer URL

• Device hostname

• Time of access

• IP address

These logs help ensure the site runs reliably and securely.

Payments

If you book a session, payment details may be collected to process the transaction. Payments are handled securely via encrypted SSL/TLS connections—you’ll see “https://” and a lock icon in your browser. This means your payment information is protected and unreadable to third parties.

Counselling Services & Personal Information

When you engage in counselling, I may collect personal information such as:

• Your name, contact details, and emergency contact

• Relevant personal, medical, or psychosocial history

• Session notes and correspondence

• Payment and billing information (if applicable)

This information is collected directly from you, unless you’ve given permission for it to be shared by another provider.

Client Records & Confidentiality

As a professional practitioner, I collect and maintain client information in secure, confidential records. These records are stored in accordance with the Health Records Act 2001 and the Australian Privacy Principles.

• Client notes are securely retained for 7 years

• You have the right to request access to your notes at any time by sending a written request

• Information is never shared with third parties without your express consent, unless there is a serious risk of harm to you, others, or children. In rare circumstances, your personal information may be disclosed if required by law such as a court order or legal subpoena.

• Where possible and safe to do so, any required disclosures are discussed with you in advance

• To ensure high-quality care, de-identified information may be shared in professional supervision or consultation your identity is never disclosed

This approach supports both ethical practice and your right to safety, autonomy, and transparency.

How Your Information Is Stored

Your information is stored securely using encrypted, password-protected systems. Paper records (if any) are kept in locked storage. Telehealth platforms used are compliant with Australian privacy standards.

Confidentiality & Its Limits

Your information stays confidential, except when:

• Required by law (e.g. mandatory reporting, court orders)

• There is a serious risk of harm to you or others

• You’ve given written consent to share information

Telehealth

Telehealth sessions are conducted via secure, encrypted platforms. You’re encouraged to choose a private, quiet space to protect your own confidentiality.

Your Rights

You have the right to:

• Access your personal information

• Request corrections if something’s inaccurate

• Ask for your data to be blocked or deleted

• Withdraw consent to data processing at any time (an informal email is fine)

• Request a copy of your data in a readable format

• Make a complaint to the relevant authority if you believe your privacy has been breached

I’ll respond to requests within a reasonable timeframe and in line with legal obligations.

Consent

By using this website or engaging in counselling with Affirm with Amy, you consent to the collection and use of your information as outlined above. Data processed before a revocation request may still be legally retained.

Contact

If you have questions, concerns, or would like to make a privacy-related request, please reach out:

Email: amy@affirmwithamy.com.au

Website: www.affirmwithamy.com