Privacy Policy

​This document outlines the policy of Dr Helen Mursell, a registered clinical psychologist and sole practitioner, responsible for the management of client information.

As a provider of psychological services via Telehealth only, this practice adheres to the Australian Privacy Principles outlined in the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth). Client information is securely stored in encrypted digital records accessible only to the psychologist and authorised administrative personnel.

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Psychological Service

As part of providing a Telehealth-based psychological service, Dr Helen Mursell collects and records personal information relevant to your current circumstances. This information is necessary for psychological assessment and treatment. It includes your name, contact details, and other information relevant to your mental health and wellbeing.

While you are not obliged to disclose all personal details, withholding information may impact the Helen’s ability to provide an appropriate service

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Purpose of Collecting and Holding Information

Information collected during Telehealth consultations is seen only by Dr Helen Mursell and is used to inform assessment, treatment planning, and therapeutic support. Records are kept securely to maintain a clear account of each session and ensure continuity of care.

Administrative staff have limited access, restricted to essential contact details only.

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Access to Client Information

You have the right to access information held about you, subject to legal exceptions. The procedure is as follows:
- Requests should be made directly to Dr Helen Mursell.
- Responses will be provided within two business days.
- You may be asked to complete a brief form outlining your request.
- A complimentary session will be offered to support you in reviewing any case notes, as they may require clinical interpretation.

Please note that case notes remain the property of the practice and may only be shared with third parties (e.g. legal, medical, or insurance bodies) upon formal request from those organisations.

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Concerns

If you have concerns about how your information is managed, please raise them directly with Dr Helen Mursell. You can request a copy of the Australian Privacy Principles at any time. Formal complaints can be directed to the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC) at 1300 363 992 or GPO Box 5218, Sydney NSW 2001.

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Confidentiality

All information shared with Dr Helen Mursell remains confidential, except in circumstances where:
- It is subpoenaed by a court.
- There is a risk of serious and imminent harm to you or others.
- You provide written consent to share information with another person or service (e.g. GP, Medicare, legal representative).
- Disclosure is otherwise required or authorised by law.

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Consent for Telehealth Psychological Services

This practice operates entirely via Telehealth (video and/or telephone). You are responsible for ensuring access to a quiet, private space and the necessary technology (camera, microphone, reliable internet). The preferred platform for sessions is Zoom Pro, selected for its privacy features.

While Telehealth provides accessible and effective support, some limitations may apply (e.g. technical issues or specific treatment needs). Dr Mursell will work with you to determine if Telehealth remains appropriate for your care.

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Fees

Standard consultations are 50–55 minutes and currently cost $290. Please see www.drhelenmursell.com under “Appointments and Fees” for details.

- Telehealth sessions are payable via bank transfer on the day of your session.
- An invoice will be emailed on the day, and a receipt issued upon payment.
- If payment is not received on the day, future sessions may require pre-payment via secure link (sent via email).

You may be eligible for a Medicare rebate with a valid GP Mental Health Treatment Plan, or for private health insurance rebates (please confirm eligibility with your provider).

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Cancellation Policy

If you need to cancel or reschedule, please provide at least 24 hours’ notice. Late cancellations may incur a fee. Details can be found at www.drhelenmursell.com under “Appointments and Fees”.

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APS Charter for Clients of Psychologists

You can access the APS Charter outlining your rights as a client in the password-protected section of www.drhelenmursell.com.

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Use of Novonote for Session Summaries

This practice uses a secure, AI-assisted platform called Novonote to support the creation of session summaries and progress notes. Novonote is designed specifically for mental health professionals and operates under strict data privacy and security protocols that comply with Australian Privacy Principles (APPs).

Novonote may assist with transcribing, summarising, or structuring reflections from therapy sessions. Only de-identified or minimally necessary information is used to ensure your privacy is upheld at all times. Your identifying details are not stored or transmitted through this platform unless explicitly required and consented to.

By engaging in therapy, you acknowledge and consent to the use of Novonote as a clinical tool for documentation purposes. If you have any concerns or would prefer not to have any aspect of your session supported by this tool, please discuss this directly with Dr Helen Mursell so that alternative arrangements can be made.