Terms and Conditions

Limitations:  It is important to note that Skype and any other online counselling is different to face-to-face counselling.  On-line is an alternative process that can help some (not all) people with some (not all) types of issues.  For example, if you are suicidal then on-line counselling is not suitable for you.

Confidentiality:  You should only engage in on-line counselling if you are comfortable with the security offered by the internet connection you have. Although considered generally secure, Baypsych Consultants Pty Ltd  cannot guarantee the security of on-line communication occurring between your computer and that of your psychologist.  Also, if you choose to keep copies of your email on your computer, it is your responsibility to ensure the security of that information.

All personal information gathered by your psychologist during your Skype psychology session will be kept confidential and secure in exactly the same manner as in face to face counselling, except where (the same as face to face counselling):

• It is subpoenaed by a court
• Failure to disclose the information would place you or another person at serious and imminent risk
• Your prior approval has been obtained to:
  • provide a written report to another professional or agency. e.g. a lawyer; or
  • discuss the material with another person, e.g. a parent or employer.

Technical Requirements: You need a computer with a webcam (for Skype) and a fairly fast, preferably broadband internet connection. If Skype is your preferred mode of communication, you need to download and register with Skype (it is easy to do and free of charge)

Technical Limitations:  Although technology has come a long way in the last 12 months, and online meetings are common in all walks of like every day, technology is not perfect and technical difficulties and delays such as a session drop-out may occur.   If this occurs, your psychologist will phone you (if possible) to discuss the issue and the steps that will be taken to rectify the problem or reschedule a time to meet again.  We will ensure that you receive the full 55 minutes of counselling time.

Cancellations:

We understand that at times it may be necessary to reschedule your appointment and we are happy to do so if this is done at least 24 hours prior to the commencement of your scheduled psychology session.

Unfortunately we are unable to refund the cost of your session if  you cancel your session less than 24 hours prior to your appointment commencement.

If you are late for your appointment, your scheduled counselling session will still end at the scheduled completion time for the session, as we have other clients who are booked in after your session.

Insurance:  You agree that the email and information exchange occurs in the Country where your psychologist resides and is governed by the laws of that state and country.  In essence, you use the information super-highway to visit your psychologist in their office where you ‘meet’ to do your counselling.

Please note that all appointment times are based on our time zone here in Australia (Brisbane).