Cancellation Policy

At Pioneer Psychology, assessment appointments involve significant time for preparation, testing, and report writing. To ensure that appointments are used efficiently, the following cancellation policy applies:

Notice Period
Please provide at least 48 hours’ notice if you need to cancel or reschedule an appointment.

Late Cancellations & No-Shows
No-shows or same-day cancellations may be charged 100% of the scheduled session cost, particularly for assessment appointments.
Cancellations with less than 48 hours’ notice will incur a fee of 50% of the scheduled session cost.
As assessment sessions require extensive preparation and reserved time, cancellations within 7 days of the scheduled date may incur a 25% fee, unless the appointment can be rebooked at short notice.

Exceptions
We understand that emergencies and illness can arise. If this occurs, please contact us as soon as possible. Fees may be waived at the psychologist’s discretion, and supporting documentation (e.g. a medical certificate) may be requested.

Payment
Fees must be paid before any further appointments.

Privacy Policy

Last updated: June 2025

Pioneer Psychology is committed to protecting your privacy and ensuring that your personal information is handled in accordance with the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) and the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs).

This policy outlines how we collect, use, store, and disclose your personal information.

What Information Is Collected?

I collect and hold personal information necessary to provide psychological assessment services. This may include, but is not limited to:

  • Your name, date of birth, address, phone number and email

  • Relevant medical, developmental, and educational history

  • Assessment data and test results

  • Notes from parent/teacher forms or observations

  • Referrer details (e.g. GP or school contact, if applicable)

  • Invoices and payment records

I may also collect information about your child from third parties, such as schools or other health professionals.

How Is Information Collected?

Information is collected through:

  • Assessment and intake forms

  • Interviews and consultations

  • Standardised psychological testing

  • Teacher/third-party feedback (when consented)

  • Direct communication (phone, email, or website enquiries)

Why Do I Collect Personal Information?

I collect personal information to:

  • Conduct psychological assessments

  • Develop and deliver written reports

  • Communicate with parents, referrers, or relevant professionals (with consent)

  • Provide feedback and recommendations

  • Maintain accurate records in line with legal obligations

  • Process payments and manage appointments

Use and Disclosure of Personal Information

Your personal information is used solely for the purposes outlined above. I will not disclose your information to a third party without your written consent, except where:

  • There is a legal obligation to do so (e.g. court subpoena)

  • There is an immediate and serious risk to your or someone else’s health or safety

  • Required by professional regulatory bodies

Data Storage and Security

Your information is stored securely, either in locked files or encrypted digital systems, and is only accessible to the treating psychologist.

I take reasonable steps to protect your information from misuse, interference, loss, unauthorised access, modification, or disclosure.

Access and Correction

You may request access to your personal information at any time. If you believe any of the information we hold is inaccurate, incomplete or outdated, please contact me to request a correction.

Requests may be made in writing, and in some cases a small fee may apply for administrative costs.

Retention of Records

In accordance with legal and professional guidelines, I retain client records for:

  • 7 years from the date of last contact for clients over 18

  • Until the client turns 25 for clients under 18

After this time, records may be securely destroyed or deleted.

Concerns and Complaints

If you have a concern or complaint about how your personal information has been handled, please contact me directly. I take privacy concerns seriously and will respond promptly.

If you are not satisfied with our response, you may lodge a complaint with the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC): www.oaic.gov.au

10. Contact Information

Pioneer Psychology
Alyssa Carter, Registered Psychologist
psyc@pioneerpsychology.com.au
0408 908 727