Effective date: June 13, 2026
Introduction
We respect your privacy and are committed to protecting personal information you provide. This policy explains how we collect, use, store, disclose, and protect personal information when you use our online counselling services in Australia. We comply with the Australian Privacy Principles: https://www.oaic.gov.au/privacy/australian-privacy-principles/australian-privacy-principles-quick-reference
Who we are
Christian Care Centre
Principle registered practitioner: Dee Beriya, ACA (The Australian Counselling Association) Registration:11650
Contact: privacy@christiancarecentre.org
The personal information we collect
Identity and contact details: name, date of birth, email, phone number, postal address.
Health and sensitive information: mental health history, medical conditions, medications, therapy notes, risk/safety information.
Payment information: card or invoice details (we do not store full card numbers if using third-party payment processors).
Technical and usage data: IP address (limited), device and browser type, appointment logs, session timestamps.
Communications: emails, messages, intake forms, consent forms, and recorded notes.
How we collect information
Directly from you via intake forms, emails, phone calls, telehealth sessions, and consent forms.
From third parties where authorised (referrers, allied health professionals) with your consent.
Automatically through our website/telehealth platform (see Cookies & analytics).
Purpose and legal basis for processing
We collect and use personal information to:
Provide counselling and allied services, manage care, and ensure safety.
Communicate with you about appointments, treatment, billing, and practice updates.
Comply with legal, regulatory, and professional obligations (including record-keeping).
Improve our services and administer the practice (billing, reporting, quality assurance).
Processing as is necessary for providing health care, for our legitimate interests in operating the practice, and to meet legal and professional obligations.
For sensitive health information, we rely on your consent and the need to provide appropriate care.
Disclosure of your information
We may disclose personal information to:
Third-party service providers (telehealth platforms, payment processors, secure cloud storage, practice management software).
Other health professionals (with your consent or where required for continuity of care).
Emergency services, guardians, or legal authorities where required by law or to prevent serious harm.
Practice auditors or professional indemnity insurers when required.
We will only share the minimum necessary information and use providers that meet suitable security standards.
Storage and security
Records are stored securely (encrypted electronic storage and locked physical records).
Access is restricted to authorised staff and practitioners.
We use secure, Australian-compliant cloud services where possible.
We retain clinical records in line with professional guidelines (usually 7–10 years for adults; longer for children or as required by law). After the retention period we securely destroy or de-identify records.
Cross border transfers: If we use service providers located outside Australia, we will take reasonable steps to ensure your data is protected consistent with Australian privacy obligations.
Cookies and analytics (website)
We use minimal cookies and analytics to improve site performance and user experience. No cookies are used to collect health information. You can disable non-essential cookies in your browser.
Your rights and choices
Access and correction: You can request access to or correction of your personal information. We will respond within a reasonable time and may require identity verification.
Consent withdrawal: You may withdraw consent for certain uses (subject to clinical and legal requirements); withdrawing consent may limit our ability to provide services.
Complaints: If you have concerns about how we handle your information, contact us at [email]. You may also contact the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC).
Mandatory reporting and legal exceptions
We may be required to disclose information without consent where mandated by law (e.g., mandatory reporting of child abuse, court orders, serious risk of harm).
Changes to this policy
We may update this policy from time to time. The effective date above will change when we publish a revised version. Significant changes will be communicated to clients.
Contact us
For privacy queries, access requests, or complaints contact principal practitioner: Ms Dee Beriya
Secure email: privacy@christiancarecentre.org