Policies

  • Before making an enquiry, please note that this service does require bank card details to be placed on file.

    All payments are processed automatically through the healthcare software system, Halaxy.

    For your security, neither your practitioner nor Halaxy staff, have access to your card details. Your information is encrypted, tokenised, and securely stored by Braintree (a subsidiary of PayPal).

    For more information, please refer to Halaxy’s card security FAQ.

    Your Payment Obligations

    • It is your responsibility to ensure that sufficient funds are available in your nominated account on the day of your appointment.

    • If a payment fails due to insufficient funds, a late payment fee will apply.

    • Clients with overdue payments may be required to prepay for future appointments and/or may have booking restrictions placed on their account.

  • Late cancellations and reschedules impact both the clinician and other clients who miss out on that reserved time. A policy is necessary to support effective and fair service delivery and compensate the clinician for the time that was set aside for you.

    Late Cancellation Fees

    • Less than 24 hours (1 business day): Full consultation fee
    • Less than 48 hours (2 business days): 50% of full consultation fee

    Important Note
    Cancellations made outside standard business hours (9.00 am to 5.00 pm, Monday to Friday), including evenings, weekends, or public holidays, are received at the start of the next business day.

    To support clients in managing their appointments, multiple reminders (email and SMS) are sent.

  • Privacy and Information Handling

    Your information is collected to support the delivery of high-quality, individualised care.

    Before commencing services, you'll be asked to complete an online intake form. This form collects personal information such as your contact details, payment information, and relevant background information. It also outlines my service policies for your review and consent.

    All personal information is securely stored within Halaxy, my practice management software. You can learn more about Halaxy’s privacy and security measures here.

    I also use Heidi Health, a HIPAA-compliant platform, to assist with technology-supported note-taking.

    Data Retention and Destruction
    I retain your personal information and clinical records for the period required by law and relevant professional guidelines. After this time, your records are securely destroyed in line with legal and industry standards.

  • Communication and Appointment Policy

    To maintain clear therapeutic boundaries and ensure the effectiveness of your sessions, I encourage all communication to take place during scheduled appointments. Frequent contact outside of sessions, especially via easily accessible technology, can blur these boundaries and reduce the impact of dedicated therapy time.

    Appointment Changes
    All cancellations and rescheduling must be managed online via Halaxy, using the appointment link provided in your email confirmation.

    Essential Contact Only
    Please limit contact outside of sessions to essential matters. If you encounter an urgent issue—such as running late, difficulty accessing the building, or technical problems with Telehealth—you may email contact@drpav.au directly.

    Email Communication
    Occasionally, you may need to send documents or information via email. Please note that electronic communication, including emails and mobile messaging, can be vulnerable to security risks. Any email exchanges will be documented and form part of your legal record.

    Support Between Sessions
    Your therapy sessions are your dedicated space to explore concerns. If you require additional support between sessions, I recommend exploring other resources, such as peer support groups (e.g., Grow). A comprehensive list of Victorian support groups is available through the Black Dog Institute at www.blackdoginstitute.org.au.

  • Please note that I do not provide crisis services or afterhours support. If you require urgent support, the following services are available 24/7:

    • Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636

    • Lifeline: 13 11 14

    • PANDA (Perinatal Anxiety & Depression Australia): 1300 726 306

    • Parenting Helpline: 1300 301 300

    • Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467

    • Psychiatric Triage: 1300 558 862

    In an emergency, please call Triple Zero (000).

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