Privacy Policy

Last updated: April 2026


Fruitful Purpose Counselling is committed to providing a safe, confidential, and ethically responsible online counselling service. This policy explains how your personal information is collected, used, stored, and protected in accordance with the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs), the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth), and the ethical guidelines of the Australian Counselling Association (ACA).

1. Purpose of This Policy

This privacy policy outlines how Fruitful Purpose Counselling manages personal information in an online counselling context, including video sessions, digital communication, and electronic record‑keeping. Your privacy, dignity, and emotional safety are central to the way services are delivered.

2. Information Collected

To provide counselling services safely and effectively, the following information may be collected:

  • Contact details: name, email address, phone number
  • Emergency contact information
  • Personal history relevant to counselling
  • Session notes and therapeutic information
  • Administrative information: invoices, appointment records
  • Documents you choose to provide
  • Technical information: IP address, device type, or connection details automatically collected by online platforms (e.g., Zoom)

Only information necessary for safe and ethical practice is collected.

3. How Information Is Collected

Information is collected through:

  • Online intake forms
  • Email or secure messaging
  • Video counselling sessions
  • Documents or information you voluntarily provide
  • Website contact forms

No information is collected without your knowledge.

4. How Your Information Is Used

Your information is used to:

  • Provide counselling services
  • Understand your needs and support your wellbeing
  • Maintain accurate clinical records
  • Manage appointments, billing, and communication
  • Ensure safety and meet ethical obligations

Your information is never used for marketing, sold to third parties, or shared without your consent except where legally required.

5. Online Counselling and Digital Security

As an online‑only service, Fruitful Purpose Counselling uses secure digital systems to protect your information.

  • Sessions are conducted via encrypted video platforms (e.g., Zoom).
  • Emails and documents are stored in secure, password‑protected systems.
  • Devices used for storing information are protected by multi‑factor authentication.
  • No session recordings are made unless explicitly agreed upon in writing.

Despite strong security measures, no online platform can guarantee 100% protection. You are encouraged to use a private space, secure internet connection, and personal device during sessions.

6. Storage and Protection of Information

Your information is stored electronically in secure, encrypted systems. Measures include:

  • Password‑protected files
  • Encrypted cloud storage
  • Restricted access (only the counsellor can access your records)
  • Regular security updates and backups

Records are retained for seven years (or longer if required by law) and then securely destroyed.

7. Limits to Confidentiality

Your privacy is respected at all times. Information is only shared without your consent when:

  • There is a serious and immediate risk of harm to you or someone else
  • There is suspected abuse or risk of harm to a child
  • Records are subpoenaed by a court
  • Disclosure is required by law

Where possible, you will be informed before any information is shared.

8. Access to Your Information

You may request access to your personal information or ask for corrections if something is inaccurate. Requests can be made in writing to the counsellor, and will be responded to within a reasonable timeframe.

9. Communication Outside Sessions

Email and online messaging are used for administrative purposes only (e.g., scheduling, sending forms). These methods are not suitable for crisis support or therapeutic conversations.

For urgent support, please contact emergency services or a crisis helpline.

10. Website and Cookies

The Fruitful Purpose Counselling website may use cookies or analytics tools to improve user experience. These do not identify you personally and can be disabled in your browser settings.

11. Questions or Concerns

If you have any questions about this privacy policy or how your information is handled, you are welcome to contact:

Fruitful Purpose Counselling  
Email: [insert email]  
Website: www.fruitfulpurposecounselling.com.au

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