Confidentiality

As a Hypnotherapist, I am bound by a Code of Ethics, set by The International Strategic Psychotherapists Association and the Hypnotherapy Council of Australia, which are the organisations I am registered with.

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I understand the importance of your privacy and confidentiality regarding the information you share with me in sessions. Everything you say to me is confidential and may be recorded in hardcopy and electronic clinical notes. All clinical notes are kept under lock and key or under a secure encrypted system for seven years after therapy has ceased.

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Sometimes though, it takes a village and collaboration can be the key to a great outcome. If your treatment plan includes collaboration with other practitioners or information that needs to be shared with other medical practitioners, you (the client) must provide signed written consent.

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Confidentiality Exceptions

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Any information disclosed is treated with the highest confidentiality however, if you disclose a serious crime OR are deemed a threat to either yourself or another, I am required to report my concerns to the appropriate agency.

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Safety and working within the scope of practice

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I am bound to work within the scope of practice. This means that if you have a serious mental health issue, I am unable to provide you with a treatment plan. Hypnotherapy is also not a magical cure-all. It can be an option that compliments other treatments. If you present with conditions such as chronic pain, I will not treat you unless you have eliminated all potential causes and with the consent of your GP or medical practitioner

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Informed consent

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Hypnotherapy can only proceed with both your written and verbal consent before every hypnotic session. I do not accept appointments made on your behalf or if you are not fully consenting and committed.

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On rare occasions, people can have what’s called an ‘abreaction’ during hypnosis. If this happens to you, I will bring you out of hypnosis and ensure your safety before you leave the session. I may call your emergency contact if required.

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Legal and Ethical Responsibilities

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My legal and ethical responsibilities include ensuring you:

• understand the nature of hypnosis, options, limitations and risks

• as the client is autonomous and is making responsible decisions on your own behalf

• and I maintain professional boundaries

• understand that if I believe you’re condition is outside scope you are referred to the appropriate specialist

• can ask for a second opinion and I must offer every practical option

• are not exploited in any way

• understand any payment agreement or contracts are clearly explained before you sign

And that I work within any existing laws of the time

For more information refer to: https://hypnotherapycouncilofaustralia.com/about-hca/code-of-ethics/

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