Our Commitment to Your Privacy:
Talking Cure is committed to protecting your privacy and ensuring your personal information is handled safely, respectfully, and in accordance with the Privacy Act 2020 (New Zealand), the Health Information Privacy Code, and ACC requirements.
We understand that many of our clients engage with us in the context of ACC Sensitive Claims, and we take extra care with the collection, storage, and sharing of information relating to trauma and sexual harm.
What Information We Collect
We may collect personal and health information necessary to provide psychological services, including:
- Your name, date of birth, address, email, and phone number
- NHI number (where required)
- ACC claim number and related ACC documentation
- Relevant medical, psychological, and social history
- Session notes, assessments, and treatment plans
- Information shared during therapy sessions
- Correspondence with ACC, referrers, or other health professionals (with consent)
We only collect information that is relevant and necessary for your care.
How We Collect Information
Information is collected:
- Directly from you (e.g. intake forms, sessions transcripts, emails)
- From ACC (where applicable)
- From other health professionals or agencies with your consent, or where legally permitted
How We Use Your Information
Your information is used to:
- Provide psychological assessment and treatment
- Meet ACC reporting and funding requirements
- Communicate with you about appointments and care
- Coordinate care with other professionals (with consent)
- Maintain accurate clinical and administrative records
- Comply with legal, ethical, and professional obligations
ACC Sensitive Claims
If you are receiving services under an ACC Sensitive Claim, certain information must be shared with ACC to enable funding and case management. This typically includes:
- Attendance confirmation
- Treatment type and progress updates
- Reports required under ACC contracts
We aim to share only the minimum information necessary, and we will discuss reporting requirements with you as part of informed consent.
Disclosure of Information
We will not disclose your information unless:
- You have given consent
- It is required or authorised by law (e.g. serious risk to safety)
- It is required by ACC for funding or care coordination
- It is necessary to prevent serious harm to you or others
Any disclosure is done carefully and in line with legal and ethical standards.
Storage and Security
We take reasonable steps to protect your information from loss, misuse, or unauthorised access. This includes:
- Secure electronic practice management systems
- Password protection and access controls
- Secure storage of any paper records
Your information is only accessible to authorised staff involved in your care.
How Long We Keep Information
Health records are retained in line with legal and professional requirements (generally at least 10 years from the last contact, or longer if required).
Your Rights
You have the right to:
- Request access to your personal information
- Request correction of inaccurate information
- Withdraw consent (where applicable)
- Make a privacy complaint
Requests will be responded to within a reasonable timeframe.
Privacy Concerns or Complaints
If you have questions or concerns about your privacy, please contact:
Privacy Officer:
Talking Cure
Email: contact@talktherapy.co.nz
Phone: 0278457755
If you are not satisfied with our response, you may contact the Office of the Privacy Commissioner at www.privacy.org.nz.
Changes to This Statement
We may update this Privacy Statement from time to time. The latest version will always be available on our website or upon request.
Last updated: 30/01/2026