Privacy & Confidentiality

Confidentiality at Katerpillar Counselling

Confidentiality is a vital part of the counselling relationship. It helps create a safe space where you can speak freely, knowing that your story will be respected and held with care. As your counsellor, I have both an ethical and legal responsibility to protect your privacy and honour the trust you’ve placed in me.

Why Confidentiality Matters

When you come to counselling, you may be sharing deeply personal, emotional, or even painful experiences. Knowing that your information will remain confidential allows for deeper reflection and healing. It’s my hope that this sense of safety will support you in exploring whatever is on your heart and mind, without fear of judgement.

What Is Considered Personal or Sensitive Information?

Under the Privacy Act 1988, your information may be considered:

Personal information: Any detail that identifies you, whether written down or not.
Sensitive information: Includes your cultural background, religious beliefs, sexual orientation, health information, and other personal details.

All information you share in counselling is treated with respect and care, in line with legal and ethical guidelines.

My Commitment

As a registered counsellor with the Australian Counselling Association (ACA), I follow their Code of Ethics and adhere to the 13 Australian Privacy Principles. I will only collect information from you that is relevant to your care and counselling support, and I will take reasonable steps to ensure your information is accurate, protected, and securely stored. Any paper or electronic records are kept confidential and securely disposed of after seven years.

When Confidentiality May Be Limited

There are times when confidentiality may need to be broken. This would only happen in specific situations:

Supervision: I regularly attend professional supervision to ensure safe and effective practice. Any discussion of client work in supervision is de-identified and focused on improving the quality of support.
Risk to self: If you share thoughts or plans of serious self-harm, I may need to take steps to ensure your safety.
Risk to others: If I believe someone else—especially a child or vulnerable adult—is at serious risk of harm, I am legally required to report it.
Legal obligations: In rare cases, I may be legally compelled to share information.

Wherever possible, I will always aim to discuss these concerns with you before taking any further steps.

Need to Know More?

This information reflects current laws and professional guidelines and will be updated as needed. If you have questions or concerns about confidentiality or how your information is managed, please don’t hesitate to contact me directly.