Informed Consent Policy
**Purpose:**
The purpose of this Informed Consent Policy is to ensure that all participants in Compass Retreats are fully informed about the nature of the services provided, the potential risks and benefits, and their rights as clients. This policy ensures compliance with Australian law and the ethical guidelines established by the Australian Psychological Society (APS), the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA), and the Psychology Board of Australia (PBA).
Scope:
This policy applies to all clinicians and staff involved in the delivery of services within Compass Retreats.
1. Definition of Informed Consent
Informed consent is the process through which clients are provided with sufficient information about the services to be offered, enabling them to make an informed and voluntary decision regarding their participation in the program.
2. Information Provided to Clients
Prior to commencing any services, participants will be provided with the following information:
Nature of Services: A clear description of the services provided, including therapeutic approaches, assessments, and the overall purpose of the program.
Potential Risks and Benefits: Information regarding possible risks associated with participation, as well as the potential benefits and expected outcomes.
Confidentiality: An explanation of how personal information will be collected, stored, and shared, and the limits of confidentiality.
Right to Withdraw: Participants will be informed of their right to withdraw consent at any time during the program without any negative consequences.
Contact Information: Details of how to contact the clinician or program coordinator for any questions or concerns.
3. Procedure for Obtaining Informed Consent
Pre-Retreat Meeting: Before the start of the program, each participant will have a one-on-one meeting with their assigned clinician to review the informed consent information.
Documentation: Participants will be asked to read and sign an Informed Consent Form that includes the following elements:
- Acknowledgment that the participant has received and understood the information provided.
- Confirmation of voluntary participation in the program.
- Acknowledgment of the potential risks and benefits.
- Agreement to the terms as outlined in the consent form.
4. Ongoing Process
Informed consent is an ongoing process. Participants will be encouraged to ask questions and seek clarification at any time throughout their engagement in the program. The clinician will regularly check in with participants to ensure that they feel informed and comfortable with the services being provided.
5. Cultural Sensitivity
The informed consent process will be conducted in a culturally sensitive manner, considering the individual needs and preferences of participants from diverse backgrounds.
6. Documentation and Record Keeping
All signed Informed Consent Forms will be securely stored in accordance with the policy on Data Management and Security to ensure confidentiality and access rights.
7. Review and Amendments
This Informed Consent Policy will be reviewed annually and updated as necessary to reflect changes in legal, ethical, or procedural standards. All staff will be notified of any amendments.