Privacy and Confidentiality Policy

Elizabeth Williamson Solutions (EWS) is committed to protecting and maintaining the confidentiality of clients’ personal information. All information shared with EWS is safeguarded under the National Privacy Principles outlined in the Commonwealth Privacy Act 1988.

Confidentiality is essential for creating a safe and trusting therapeutic environment. EWS follows a strict code of ethics and upholds these standards throughout the entire therapeutic relationship.

We have strong procedures in place to protect client information, all of which are guided by the Australian National Privacy Principles.

What are the exceptions to confidentiality?

In certain circumstances, a therapist may be legally or ethically required to break confidentiality, including:

• When legally required to provide client records in relation to a court case.
• If there is a genuine concern that someone may harm themselves or others, including minors. In such cases, the therapist is obligated to involve the appropriate authorities. This may include contacting authorities or family members without consent to ensure safety.
• When there is knowledge or suspicion of abuse, ongoing domestic violence, or neglect involving a vulnerable person (such as children, people with disabilities, or the elderly). Therapists are legally required to report this.
• Any disclosure will be limited to what is necessary to protect the individual or others involved.

If I am under 18, will the therapist tell my parents what was discussed?

Elizabeth will explain confidentiality during your first session. In Australia, individuals aged 18 and over automatically have full confidentiality. In some regions, this age differs — for example, it is 14 in the Northern Territory, and 16 in South Australia and New South Wales.

For clients under the age of automatic confidentiality, a parent or guardian must be present at the first session. Together, an agreement can be made regarding the young person’s privacy. Often, the parent agrees to be informed only if the young person is at risk. The therapist will also explain how future sessions will be structured — this may include both joint and individual sessions.

Can I share my information from counselling with others?

Yes — you are free to share your experience with anyone you choose. If you would like a family member, friend, or partner to be involved or informed, written consent will be required. The same applies if you wish to share information with a specialist, doctor, or employer.

Until this consent is provided, EWS will not confirm that you are a client. Your privacy is always a top priority.

Privacy, transparency, and trust are the foundation of counselling at EWS. Elizabeth will clearly explain how confidentiality applies to your unique circumstances during your first session. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us on +61 400 219 120.