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Privacy Policy

Internal Growth

Effective Date: 21/11/2024

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Internal Growth Holistic Psychology is committed to safeguarding the privacy and confidentiality of all personal information in accordance with the New Zealand Privacy Act 2020 and the Health Information Privacy Code 2020 (HIPC). This Privacy Policy outlines how we collect, use, store, and disclose personal information, and your rights as a client of Rebecca Armstrong, MNZCCP, Registered Clinical Psychologist.

1. Collection of Personal Information

We collect personal information necessary to provide psychological services, including:

  • Your name, address, date of birth, and contact details.

  • Health information, including medical history and details of your presenting concerns.

  • Notes and records of your sessions.

  • Any information provided by third parties, such as referring doctors or other healthcare providers.

This information is collected directly from you or from third parties with your consent.

2. Purpose of Collecting Personal Information

We collect and use your personal information to:

  • Provide psychological assessment, treatment, and support.

  • Communicate with you regarding appointments, treatment plans, or other service-related matters.

  • Maintain accurate clinical records as required by professional and legal obligations.

  • Comply with legal and professional requirements.

3. Use and Disclosure of Personal Information

Your personal information will only be used for the purposes outlined above and will not be disclosed to third parties without your consent, except where:

  • It is required by law (e.g., court orders or mandatory reporting of risks of harm).

  • It is necessary to prevent serious harm to you or others.

  • It is required for supervision or consultation with other professionals to ensure high-quality care. In such cases, identifying details are anonymized unless otherwise agreed.

4. Storage and Security of Personal Information

All personal information is stored securely in accordance with the Health Information Privacy Code 2020 and professional guidelines. Measures include:

  • Secure, password-protected digital systems for electronic records.

  • Locked filing cabinets for paper records.

  • Regular reviews of data security protocols to prevent unauthorized access, loss, or misuse of information.

Personal information is retained for a minimum of 10 years following the last interaction as required by New Zealand law. After this period, it will be securely destroyed.

5. Your Rights

Under the New Zealand Privacy Act 2020, you have the right to:

  • Access your personal information and request a copy of it.

  • Request correction of inaccurate or incomplete information.

  • Withdraw consent for the collection or use of your personal information (noting this may affect the services provided).

  • Complain to the Office of the Privacy Commissioner if you believe your rights have been breached.

6. Communication and Confidentiality

We respect your privacy in all communications. If you contact us via email or phone, we will use these methods only for scheduling and brief administrative communications. Sensitive or confidential discussions will take place in-person or via secure telehealth platforms.

7. Use of Telehealth Services

If telehealth is used, we ensure that platforms meet security and privacy standards. You will be informed of any risks associated with using telehealth, and your consent will be obtained before proceeding.

8. Consent and Updates to this Policy

By engaging our services, you consent to the collection, use, and disclosure of your personal information as outlined in this policy.

We may update this Privacy Policy to reflect changes in legal requirements or practice operations. The most current version will be available on our website or by request.

Contact Us

If you have questions, concerns, or requests regarding your personal information, please contact:

Rebecca Armstrong, MNZCCP
Registered Clinical Psychologist
Email: rebecca.armstrong@internalgrowth.co.nz
Phone: 022 624 0289

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This Privacy Policy ensures compliance with New Zealand's Privacy Act 2020, the Health Information Privacy Code 2020, and relevant ethical and professional standards.

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