Privacy Policy and Data Retention: Your privacy is paramount to me. In compliance with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the Dutch AVG, I am committed to upholding strict privacy policies and data retention practices. Adhering to the ethical guidelines set by the NIP, I prioritise confidentiality and ensure the protection of electronic data collected through our practice's contact channels. Our practice website can be found at www.fernandespsychology.com.

The website of the practice is www.fernandespsychology.com. Anonymous visitor information is collected by the website www.fernandespsychology.com to track the number of visitors, duration the visit and pages viewed. You have the right to request that your information be deleted at any time. In the event of a digital data breach, you will be informed in a timely manner. Retention of data collected as part of the operation of the practice follows general guidelines of NIP. Contact with a third party such as other healthcare providers would be initiated at the request of the client and any communication would be previewed by the client themselves. Any information stored on the practice computer or cell phone is encrypted and password protected. Written notes or communication are stored in a locked cabinet.

Personal data is typically limited to contact information provided during intake, such as name, address, and phone number.This information is exclusively utilised for direct communication and billing purposes. A portion of this data (name, e-mail and address), is utilised for financial administration to facilitate invoicing. My accountant is also granted access to this information, bound by legal obligations to maintain confidentiality. Invoices are retained for a period of seven years in accordance with Dutch taxation laws. The data from your file can also be used for the following purposes: for observation by another psychologist - during my absence - or for supervision and the anonymised use during peer evaluation. If I want to make use of your data for any other reason than those listed above, I will first inform you and explicitly request your permission.

For comprehensive treatment, the maintenance of a client file is essential. This file encompasses identity information such as name, age, place, and date of birth, alongside other pertinent details essential for treatment. Supplementary information may be obtained with your explicit permission or as required from other healthcare providers, such as general practitioners. Communication with third parties, including other healthcare providers, is initiated only at the client's request, who will be duly informed of the conversation's content.

All data stored on practice devices, including computers and cell phones, is encrypted and password-protected. Physical records and communications are securely stored in a locked cabinet. Data retention aligns with the overarching guidelines established by the NIP. Anonymous visitor information collected on our website, www.fernandespsychology.com, is utilised solely to track visitor metrics and website interaction duration. You retain the right to request the deletion of your information at any juncture. In the event of a digital data breach, you will be promptly notified.

Should I be unable to maintain contact with my clients due to unforeseen circumstances such as death, accident, or sudden illness, a designated mental health professional will be entrusted to execute the following tasks:

1. Contact all clients via email or telephone.

2. Facilitate clients, where necessary, in arranging suitable alternative support. For this purpose, the designated individual will be provided with clients' contact information, including name, email, and telephone number. It is agreed that this information will solely be utilised for the specified tasks, with any unauthorised access constituting a breach of confidentiality and subject to appropriate consequences.

Confidentiality: As a client of Fernandes Psychology, your privacy and confidentiality are paramount. All personal information shared during therapy sessions is held in strict confidence, adhering to professional standards and legal obligations outlined in the GDPR, Dutch law, and NIP ethical guidelines. Your personal and medical data is handled with the utmost care, ensuring restricted access to unauthorised individuals. As your treating therapist, I am the sole custodian of the data contained within your file. Consent will always be asked before sharing any information with others (parents/ caregivers in case of minors).This is communicated and agreed upon during the initial consultation with the client. In case of minors, parents/caregivers are also asked to be part of this initial conversation. Clients and their parents/caregivers (in case of minors) sign a consent form where state that they are in agreement with the Fernandes Psychologist practice rules and policy.

Limitations to confidentiality: Maintaining confidentiality is paramount in Fernandes Psychologist. Here we are committed to establish a safe and empathetic relationship with clients building trust and respect. Confidentiality is a legal obligation, barring disclosure of confidential information to third parties without client's explicit consent. Exceptions to confidentiality arise only in situations where there is a credible risk of harm to yourself, a child, or another adult. In such cases, Fernandes Psychology has a duty of care to notify relevant parties (such as caregivers/ parents, in case of minors) or authorities responsible for safeguarding the person and situation. The client will always be informed of this. I will do my upmost to discussed with clients what is the best course of action prior to any action being taken.

Confidentiality extends to young people below 18 years old, with session content treated as confidential. Consent is sought before divulging any information to parents or caregivers. In cases where a minor is deemed to pose a risk to themselves or others, Fernandes Psychology is obligated to inform their caregiver. This policy is communicated and agreed upon during the initial consultation with the client and their parents or caregivers. All parties must agree with it before the young client starts receiving psychological support at Fernandes Psychology. Fernandes Psychology, is committed to offering safe services for all. A copy of an up-to-date (3 years) certificate of conduct can be provided on request.

Clinical Supervision: Recognising the importance of clinical supervision, I regularly engage in reflective discussions with my clinical supervisor and participate in peer intervision sessions. The anonymity of all clients is scrupulously maintained during these sessions, with client identities never disclosed. My supervisor and colleagues are also bound by confidentiality.

Online Therapy: Online sessions mirror in-person sessions in their therapeutic approach and adherence to confidentiality policies. Clients are reminded to choose a secure and private location for online sessions, acknowledging the inherent limitations of virtual therapy in maintaining confidentiality. It is responsibility of each client to make sure they are in a safe space where they can have privacy and not be interrupt during our sessions. Clients are also educated on effective participation in electronic counselling relationships, particularly adolescents, to mitigate potential misunderstandings resulting from the absence of verbal and visual cues. Clients should also be mindful of what they wear during our sessions. These services are not intended for crisis and all types of interventions. Referrals will be done as needed. During a crisis, please contact your general practitioner for appropriate support.

The advantages and limitations of online sessions  are discussed with clients during our initial conversation. Clients will be informed of the benefits and limitations of virtual/distance therapy.

Client Rights: As a client, you are entitled to:

• Receive respectful and professional treatment.

• Receive clear information about therapy processes, including fees and cancellation policies.

• Participate in decisions regarding therapy goals and treatment plans.

• Access to information and request corrections or updates as needed.

Therapy Services: Fernandes Psychology provides therapy services for informational, supportive, preventative, and therapeutic purposes only. Crisis services are not offered, and clients in crisis are advised to contact their general practitioner for appropriate support.

Insurance: Currently, I am not affiliated with any health insurance companies. Clients typically contact their insurance provider directly to inquire about reimbursement options. Certain insurance companies may offer partial coverage for therapy sessions. For detailed information, please reach out to your insurance provider.

Payment and Cancellation Policy: Session fees are determined through verbal and written agreements with clients and may be paid via debit/credit cards or bank transfers. Invoices are emailed after each session or at the end of each month, with payment expected within 14 days of receipt. Cancellation or rescheduling requests must be made at least 24 hours in advance to avoid charges. Late cancellations or no-shows may be subject to full charges, with exceptions to be decided on a case by case bases.

Legal Compliance: Fernandes Psychology operates in compliance with all relevant laws and regulations in the Netherlands, including those set forth by the Dutch Institute of Psychologists (NIP). As a member of NIP, Fernandes Psychology follows their professional guidelines and code of ethics. To further demonstrate quality and work experience here in The Netherlands, I got the Psychologist NIP service mark.

Dispute Resolution: Any disputes arising from these terms and conditions will be governed by Dutch law, with both parties agreeing to seek resolution through negotiation or mediation.

If you ever have any concerns or feel something isn't quite right, please don't hesitate to talk to me directly. I'm here to help and want to ensure your experience is positive and fulfilling. Should you have any concerns or complaints, I kindly ask that you reach out to me directly so we can address them together. However, I understand that there may be instances where this isn't feasible. In such cases, as a member of the NIP (Nederlands Instituut van Psychologen), I am held to the their code of practice and disciplinary law. The NIP handles all complaint processes in accordance with their regulations. For complaints, please refer to the NIP page about complaints.

Changes to Terms and Conditions: Fernandes Psychology reserves the right to update or modify these terms and conditions at any time without prior notice. Continued use of the website following any changes constitutes acceptance of the revised terms and conditions.

Contact Information: For any questions or concerns regarding these terms and conditions, please contact me at renata@fernandespsychology.com.

Thank you for choosing Fernandes Psychology. We look forward to supporting you on your journey to wellbeing.