Introduction

Welcome! This document outlines the important details regarding the psychological services I offer in my private practice. Please read this information carefully and ask any questions you may have before signing below. By selecting the below checkbox, you are acknowledging that you have read and understood this information and that you have had all your questions answered.

Importantly, within my practice I utilise AI assisted note-taking, which allows me to be more present throughout our sessions. With your consent, I will also video record our sessions. There is additional information below on both of these practices, and I will not use either without your express consent, which you can provide below.

Use of AI Notetaking

Before we proceed with your appointment, I want to inform you about an important aspect of how we document our consultations. We utilize a note taking tool called Heidi to accurately and efficiently capture the details of our discussions and the outcomes of our appointments. Heidi ensures that we can focus more on our conversation and less on manual note taking, enhancing the quality of care you receive.

Your consent is crucial for us to use this technology. Please understand that your information will be handled with the utmost care, and Heidi’s use is aimed solely at improving your healthcare experience.

Video Recording

Video and audio recordings are commonly used for consultation, training and research in mental health treatment.

Taylor regularly creates and observes recordings of treatment sessions for quality care/improvement purposes. The recording of sessions will likely enhance the effectiveness of your psychological treatment.

I understand that with the use of the recordings, my name will not be identified. I understand that my psychologist will take all reasonable efforts to ensure that such recordings remain confidential and are used or disclosed only as allowed herein or as required by law. I acknowledge that these recordings are not kept as part of my clinical notes.

I acknowledge that all recordings become the sole and exclusive property of my psychologist. Furthermore, I understand that my psychologist has the sole and exclusive rights to its viewing, display, and erasure.

About Me

My name is Taylor Sweetnam and I am a licensed clinical psychologist in Queensland, Australia.

My registration number is PSY0002483536

Services Offered

I provide individual therapy for adults (ages 18+) experiencing a variety of challenges, including anxiety, depression and relationship issues.

I utilise psychodynamic therapy, and my work is predominantly informed by the modality known as Intensive Short Term Dynamic Psychotherapy.

I do not offer medication management, court-ordered evaluations, or assessment for diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Evaluation

The first few sessions will involve my evaluation of your needs. This evaluation typically lasts 1-3 sessions.

We will discuss if I am the right therapist for you and determine goals for treatment.

I will refer you to another therapist if I believe someone else is better suited.

Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy is a collaborative effort that requires active participation from you.

The approach used will vary depending on your needs and it may involve discussing uncomfortable topics.

There are no guarantees about the outcome of therapy, but studies have shown psychotherapy to be helpful to those who undergo it.

Benefits and Risks of Therapy

Therapy requires a significant investment of time, money, and energy. Therapy can be a helpful and effective way to address emotional and behavioral difficulties.

Potential benefits of therapy include improved mood, reduced stress, better coping under stress, and enhanced relationships.

However, therapy can also involve some emotional discomfort as you explore challenging issues.

Throughout any therapy sessions, I encourage you to ask questions. Also, feel free to seek a second opinion at any time.

Confidentiality

All information discussed in therapy sessions will be kept confidential, unless you give me written permission to share such information, with some exceptions as outlined below.

I may be required by law to report suspected abuse or neglect ,for example regarding children, elders, or disabled adults.

I may also be required to disclose information if compelled by a court order (subpoena).

If I believe you may harm yourself or others, I may need to take steps to ensure your safety or the safety of others.

I may consult with other professionals about your case to help provide you with appropriate care. If I do such consultations, I will make every effort to avoid revealing information that could identify you to maintain your privacy.

If you are concerned about confidentiality in any situation, please bring it to my attention.

Fees

My fee for a standard in clinic or telehealth therapy session is $255. Sessions are typically 45-50 minutes long.

Additional Fees:

Additional services, including the list below, will be billed at $280 per hour, pro-rata.

- Report writing

- Telephone conversations at your request

- Attendance at meetings with other professionals per your request

- Preparation of records or treatment summaries

Payment

You are responsible for my professional time if legal matters require my participation, even if I am subpoenaed.

I utilise Stripe processing for payment, and payment is due at the conclusion of our session unless otherwise agreed upon.

There is a $150 fee for cancellations with less than 24 hours hours notice.

If your account is unpaid after 7 days, I reserve the right to charge your provided credit card for the full amount of the session.

Your Rights

You have the right to participate actively in your treatment and make informed decisions about your care.

You have the right to ask questions and request clarification at any time.

You have the right to terminate therapy at any time.

You have the right to seek a second opinion.

You have the right to access your treatment records, with some exceptions. Please let me know if you would like to discuss.

Contacting Me

When you contact my office, you are welcome to leave me a message, and I will make every effort to return your call within 24 hours. Please note that I am not an emergency service, and if you require immediate help please contact 000, or other available help lines such as Lifeline.

My Responsibilities

I am committed to providing you with competent and ethical psychological care.

I will respect your privacy and confidentiality.

I will discuss the limitations of my expertise and refer you to another provider if necessary.

Agreement

By agreeing to these terms, you acknowledge that you have read and understood this Informed Consent document, that you have had all your questions answered to your satisfaction, and you consent to the releases of information described above. You agree to participate in therapy voluntarily.