Stone by Stone Psychology
Telehealth Policy
Updated 22 April 2025, Version 1.
Welcome to Stone by Stone Psychology’s Telehealth Policy. By accessing or using our website, booking systems, or other digital services (collectively referred to as “Digital Services”), you agree to be bound by the following Telehealth Policy. This policy is designed to explain how our telehealth services work and outline your rights and responsibilities when engaging in remote psychological care.
To download a copy of the Terms, please click here.
What is Telehealth?
Telehealth involves delivering psychological services using secure video conferencing technology. It allows you to access support from the comfort and privacy of your own space, no matter where you are in Australia.
Who Can Access Telehealth Services?
I offer online psychology sessions to clients living anywhere in Australia. Please note, due to legal and ethical reasons related to psychology registration, I am not currently able to provide services to clients located outside of Australia.
Informed Consent for Telehealth Sessions
By signing the consent form upon initiation of services, you acknowledge that you understand both the benefits and potential risks of telehealth sessions.
Benefits of Telehealth Sessions
Continued access to your psychologist
Ongoing therapeutic support as part of your treatment plan
No need to travel to attend your appointments
Potential Risks and Downsides
Telehealth/video conferencing may not feel the same as face-to-face sessions
Technical issues (e.g., poor video/audio quality or internet disconnection) could disrupt the session
While I use secure, encrypted video platforms and maintain the same confidentiality standards as in-person therapy, additional variables (like your internet provider, Wi-Fi security, and physical privacy) may impact confidentiality
There is a small risk of third-party access (e.g., hacking) despite using high-security, encrypted systems
You are encouraged to ask questions at any time. If you no longer wish to continue with telehealth sessions or if technical issues arise during a session, we can switch to a phone consultation or reschedule as needed.
Privacy & Confidentiality
Your sessions are conducted using secure, encrypted video platforms. Records are managed in accordance with the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) and AHPRA guidelines.
To protect your confidentiality:
Please use a private, quiet space
Avoid public Wi-Fi and use a secure internet connection
Ensure no one else can overhear the session unless we’ve agreed otherwise
Emergency Situations
Telehealth is not suitable for managing emergencies. In urgent or life-threatening situations, please contact:
Emergency Services: 000
Lifeline: 13 11 14
Your local hospital or mental health crisis team
I will ask for your physical location and an emergency contact at the start of therapy/in the biographical information form to assist if a crisis occurs during a session.
Technology Requirements
To attend telehealth appointments, you’ll need:
A reliable internet connection
A private, distraction-free environment
A device with a camera and microphone (e.g., smartphone, tablet, or computer)
If a video session is disrupted, we may continue by phone or reschedule.
Fees & Cancellations
Fees for telehealth sessions are the same as for in-person services. Please provide at least 48 hours notice to cancel or reschedule your appointment to avoid a cancellation fee. Full fee and cancellation terms are outlined in your client agreement.
Your Rights
You have the right to:
Ask questions about telehealth services at any time
Withdraw from telehealth services at any point
Make a complaint via the Psychology Board of Australia or the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC)
Consent Confirmation
By agreeing to this policy and signing the consent form, you confirm that you:
Have read and understood the above information
Are aware of the potential benefits and risks of telehealth
Consent to participate in online therapy sessions under these terms
Changes to This Policy
This policy may be updated periodically to reflect legal changes or improvements to our practice. The latest version will always be available on our website. Continued use of our services implies agreement with the most current version.
Contacting Us
For questions, access requests, or to lodge a complaint about how your information is handled, please contact us in writing:
📧 Email: stonebystonepsychology@hotmail.com
We aim to respond to all written requests within 30 days.