Terms & Conditions:
Limitations: It is important to note that on-line counselling is not the same as face-to-face counselling. On-line counselling is not a universal substitute for face-to-face-counslling but rather an alternative process that can help some (not all) people with some (not all) types of issues, for example, if you are suicidal then on-line counselling is not suitable for you. In essence, both on-line and face-to-face counselling is good for you, but they are not the same.
Confidentiality: You should only engage in on-line counselling if you are comfortable with the security offered by Email, Skype and Instant Messenger. Although considered generally secure, YourPsychOnline.com can not guarantee the security of on-line communication occurring between your computer and that of your psychologist. Also, if you choose to keep copies of your email on your computer, it is your responsibility to ensure the security of that information.
All personal information gathered by your psychologist during the provision of the psychological service will be kept confidential and secure except where:
- It is subpoenaed by a court, or
- Failure to disclose the information would place you or another person at serious and imminent risk; or
- Your prior approval has been obtained to: a) provide a written report to another professional or agency. e.g. a lawyer; or b) discuss the material with another person, e.g. a parent or employer.
Technical Requirements: You need a computer with a webcam (for Skype) and a fairly fast, preferably broadband internet connection (cable or dial up). You must be comfortable with text-based communication such as Instant Messenger Chat and email exchange. If Skype is your preferred mode of communication, you need to download and register with Skype (it is easy to do and free of charge).
Technical Limitations: Technology is not perfect and hence technical difficulties and delays such as a session drop-out may occur. In such circumstance, your psychologist will email or call you to determine what the problem may be. Time lost will be made up. If connection is not possible on the day, we will postpone to another suitable time.
Cancellations: Unfortunately we are unable to refund cancellations made with less than 24hours notice. If you are late for your appointment, your psychologist will wait for you for no more than 15 minutes. You will still pay for the full appointment time as that time has been set aside for you and could not be used by someone else. If you are more than 15 minutes late, you will forfeit the payment and time for that appointment.
Insurance: You agree that the email and information exchange occurs in the state where your psychologist resides and is governed by the laws of that state and country. In essence, you use the information super-highway to visit your psychologist in their office where you ‘meet’ to do your counselling.