Confidentiality

All information that is received by Performing Mind either through your intake questionnaire or through your assignments, is subject to the same principles of confidentiality as when we consult face-to-face. The effectiveness of psychology interventions depends on trust between psychologist and client, so we are very careful about not breaching this. The only exception to this is if we feel that either the client or someone else, is in serious danger.

In my experience this can become complicated when the programme is being paid for by someone other than the person actually registered to do it, eg in the case of the team or association paying for the players, or even just a parent paying for their child. There have been cases in which those footing the bill feel it automatically entitles them to information.

Please note however, that our responsibility and confidentiality rests with the person actually doing the course, not with those paying for it. While we would always encourage athletes to discuss and share important information with relevant parties, confidential information can only be disclosed with the athlete’s consent, or where we are obliged to do so in accordance with the Health Professions Act.