Chapman Marques Psychology and Relationship Counselling employs The Gottman Method and Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy. These theories and therapies have been extensively empirically validated across many years and are the gold standard for relationship therapy.

Reasonably foreseeable risks, adverse effects and possible disadvantages could include either or both partners deciding to end the relationship. Successful outcomes in terms of improved relationships are reported using The Gottman Method or Emotionally Focused Therapy varying upwards of 80 to 90 percent. Amongst the reasonably foreseeable consequences should you decline or withdraw may be your therapy may be less effective and any gains may not be sustained.

Information may be collected in writing on the therapist’s device and/or, with your permission, electronically recorded. Electronic recordings, as per signed agreement will only be retained whilst being used during your therapy for professional supervision and skill development. They are not considered part of your clinical record.

Information will be securely stored on protected devices. Devices are stored under locked conditions. Information will be stored for seven years then destroyed. Only you, the therapist and the therapist’s professional supervisor will have access to your data. Access by the supervisor will be via the therapist for supervision and skill development purposes. The supervisor will know you only by your first names.

You may participate, decline to participate, or withdraw on request.

You may not electronically record sessions or part thereof (it is illegal).

As part of your intake form you have signed a confidentiality and cancellation or non-attendance policy.

Therapy may be terminated if the therapist considers there is uncivil behaviour; a risk of harm to a partner; sessions are booked with unworkable time gaps between them; or, if false information has been provided.

Data stored will include intake documentation; session notes; relevant correspondence; dates of attendance. Data is stored on a locked device in a locked premises. Information technology experts advise on and install software to reduce the potential for data breaches.

Our technology consultants will advise in the event of a data breach involvingclient information.

Reception is responsible for responding to enquiries; setting appointments; and, other communications. Responses to enquiries will be on an as soon as possible basis.

Clients who are considered a danger to self or others will be referred to the appropriate agency or agent as the situation dictates. This may include a treating practitioner (psychologist; psychiatrist, doctor); family member; Domestic Violence Crisis, AFP etc.

Note our published fee schedule on our website. We cannot afford to bulk bill.

Potential limitations or risks of providing teletherapy can include:

• some issues may be less appropriate for telehealth services;
• some clients’ psychological state may render teletherapy inappropriate;
• the capacity for crisis intervention may be diminished;
• misunderstandings may arise due to diminished sound and vision quality compared to face-to-face interactions and/or technology glitches, and limited non-verbal cues;
• the technology can fail which creates disruption or confusion in the service delivery (e.g., email, text and other messages may not be received);
• the psychologist may not be available to respond within the time frame expected by the client;
• the need for a particular level of computer specification (e.g., online testing) and competence in technology; and
• other people may have access to clients’ email, etc., for example, family members, friends, or colleagues.

Some clients may forward messages from their psychologist to others. This is akin to taking some-one else’s prescription medication. Any communication is specific to the client and may not be applicable or helpful to others.