Terms & Conditions and Consent for Services

Thank you for choosing Grounded Counsellor. These terms and conditions provide important information about our counselling services, including confidentiality, telehealth protocols, fees, and cancellation policies. By engaging in our services, you confirm that you understand and agree to the terms outlined below.

Consent for Counselling Services

To provide counselling services that address your unique needs, Grounded Counsellor will collect and maintain relevant information related to your current situation. This information is essential for effective assessment and ongoing treatment. I acknowledge that I have been informed about the nature and purpose of the counselling services being provided. I understand the following:

  1. Nature of Counselling: The counselling sessions will involve discussing personal thoughts, feelings, and behaviours to improve my emotional well-being.

  2. Confidentiality: I understand that all information discussed in therapy is confidential, except in situations where:

o   When failure to disclose information could pose a risk to yours or others safety, I am legally and ethically required to notify appropriate individuals or authorities.

o   If disclosure is ordered by a court of law (subpoena), I may be required to disclose information related to our sessions.

o   I may discuss our sessions with a clinical supervisor. All information in supervision is confidential and intended to help me provide the most effective support for you.

With your active consent, some information will be given to third parties in certain cases (GP, Specialists). I will obtain specific consent to do so, and we will discuss what to include together.

3. Emergency Procedures: In case of emergency, I understand the counsellor may contact emergency services or family members if necessary.

Telehealth Services

Telehealth sessions are delivered via secure, encrypted video conferencing platforms compliant with Australian privacy standards. While every effort is made to protect your privacy, internet-based communication carries inherent risks.

Technology Requirements:

  • You are responsible for ensuring access to a private, quiet space with an appropriate device (smartphone, laptop, computer, or tablet) equipped with a camera, microphone, and speakers, along with a stable internet connection.

  • In the event of internet disruptions, sessions may continue via phone. You are responsible for any technology costs incurred, while Grounded Counsellor covers the platform expenses.

Limitations of Telehealth:

  • Network issues may affect session quality. Some services may be less effective via telehealth, and your counsellor will assess suitability on an ongoing basis.

  • In the event of technical difficulties, alternative arrangements (e.g., rescheduling or switching to phone/email) will be made.

  • Important: Grounded Counsellor is not an emergency service. If you are in crisis or experiencing an emergency, please contact 000 or go to your nearest hospital.

Fees and Payment

  • Session Fees: Full session fees are processed automatically upon the conclusion of your appointment.

  • Payment Methods: Fees are payable via secure online platforms, and invoices are provided in compliance with Australian taxation laws.

Cancellation Policy

  • We understand that life can be unpredictable. If you need to cancel or reschedule, please provide  24-48 Hours Notice.

  • Less Than 24 Hours Notice: Cancellations with less than 24 hours notice or missed appointments may incur the full session fee, except in cased of emergency or exceptional circumstances.

  • Late Arrivals/No-Shows: If you arrive late, the session will still end at the scheduled time to accommodate for other clients. Full fees apply for late arrivals.

Initial Consultations (New Clients)

Before your first session, you will receive an online Intake Form via email which we kindly ask you to complete at least 48 hours prior to your appointment. Additionally, I may arrange a brief phone call with you beforehand to conduct an initial assessment and ensure that we are a good fit  to work together in the counselling process.

By engaging in counselling services with Grounded Counsellor, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agreed to the terms outlined above, including confidentiality, telehealth protocols, and payment policies. If you have any questions or concerns regarding these terms, please discuss them with your counsellor before commencing sessions.

Acceptance of Terms

Thank you for trusting Grounded Counsellor. We look forward to supporting you on your journey.