DBT Program Terms and Conditions

 Fees and Rebates

Individuals must engage with both weekly group and individual sessions for duration of 10 week program. 

Group sessions

The standard fee for each group is $30 per week, total of $300 for 10 week program. Each group session runs for 90minutes. 

There is no Medicare rebate available for the group sessions

Individual sessions

Health care card holders with valid mental health care plan will be bulk billed. 

The standard fee for an individual session is $140 per session (50 minutes). Individuals on a low income may be eligible for reduced rates. Please contact us to discuss 

Medicare rebates

Medicare rebates are only available for individual sessions for those with a valid mental health care plan. 

Individuals who are eligible, will receive a Medicare rebate of up to $87.24 per session, with a valid mental health care plan referral from their General Practitioner (GP). To access the rebate, it is essential to obtain the appropriate referral before commencing CORE DBT Skills program. 

NDIS Funding

Eligible participants in the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) who have self-managed or plan-managed funding for therapeutic supports (item: 15_621_0128_1_3) may use their NDIS funds to pay for services. The fees for these sessions are covered by the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) and are set in accordance with the NDIA schedule of fees.

Payments

To secure your place in CORE DBT Skills program, payment is required via Halaxy. By signing up to CORE DBT Skills program, you consent for your card details to be held securely on Halaxy to be charged weekly for both the group and individual session cost. 

Cancellations

Due to the nature of the program. Cost of the group sessions will be charged even if you cancel or do not attend. 

If you need to cancel an individual appointment, please provided a minimum of 24hours notice. 

Late cancellations (less than 24hours notice), will result in full session fee being charged. 

If you arrive late or leave your session early, you will still be filled for the entire allocated session time. 

Last updated Jan 2026

 1. Commitment to Privacy and Confidentiality

CORE DBT Skills is committed to protecting your privacy and managing your personal information in accordance with the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth), the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs), and the Health Records Act 2001 (Vic). We recognise the sensitive nature of mental health information and regard confidentiality as a fundamental aspect of ethical and professional practice. This policy details how we collect, use, disclose, and store your personal information, and outlines your rights to access or correct it. By using our services, you consent to the practices described in this policy.

2. What Personal Information We Collect

Personal information is defined as any information or opinion that identifies an individual. The types of information we may collect include:

• Name, date of birth, address, phone number, and email address
• Emergency contact details
• Referral information (such as that provided by GPs, NDIS providers, or other health professionals)
• Medicare or NDIS details and billing information
• Clinical notes, assessments, and treatment records
• Correspondence with you or with other professionals involved in your care

We may also collect sensitive information, including details about your health, mental health, medical history, and cultural background. Such sensitive information is handled with the utmost care and confidentiality.

4. Why We Collect Personal Information

We collect and use your personal information for the following reasons:

• To provide safe, effective, and evidence-based mental health services
• To coordinate care with other treating professionals (with your consent)
• To manage appointments, billing, and administrative tasks
• To comply with legal, ethical, and regulatory obligations
• To improve our services through quality assurance and professional supervision, using  de-identified data only

We only collect information necessary for these purposes, and will inform you of the reasons for collection at the time information is obtained.

5. Use and Disclosure of Personal Information

Your personal information will be used or disclosed only for the purposes for which it was collected, or for directly related purposes you would reasonably expect. Information may be shared with your consent (for example, sharing reports with your GP or NDIS provider), or when required or authorised by law (such as court orders or mandatory reporting obligations). In situations where there is a serious threat to your life, health, or safety, or that of another person, disclosure may also occur.

Examples of third parties we may share information with (where appropriate and with consent) include:

• General Practitioners, Psychiatrists, Psychologists, and Allied Health Providers
• NDIS support coordinators or plan managers
• Medicare, insurers, or funding bodies
• IT service providers who securely host our systems (bound by confidentiality agreements)

All third parties are required to adhere to privacy and data protection standards consistent with this policy. We do not use your personal information for any purpose outside those described here without your consent, unless legally required or permitted.

6. Confidentiality and Legal Exceptions

Your privacy and confidentiality are paramount. Information shared in sessions remains confidential except under the following circumstances:

• You provide written consent for information to be shared with specific individuals or services
• There is an identified risk of harm to yourself or others
• Information is subpoenaed by a court
• Disclosure is required by law, such as mandatory reporting obligations

7. Storage and Security of Personal Information

We take reasonable measures to protect your personal information from misuse, loss, unauthorised access, modification, or disclosure. Electronic records are stored securely on password-protected and encrypted platforms. Paper records are kept in locked filing cabinets, accessible only to authorised personnel.

Client records are retained for a minimum of seven years following the last service provided, or longer for minors (until they turn 25 years old). When records are no longer required, they are securely destroyed or permanently de-identified. While we implement industry best practices to safeguard your information, please note that no electronic transmission is completely secure.

8. Access to and Correction of Personal Information

You have the right to request access to the personal information we hold about you, or to request corrections if it is inaccurate, incomplete, or outdated.

Proof of identity may be required before information is released. In some cases, access may be refused as permitted by law, in which case the reasons will be provided in writing.

Requests for access or correction should be made in writing to: core.dbtskills@gmail.com

9. Maintaining Accuracy of Records

We make every effort to ensure your personal information is accurate and up to date. Please notify us of any changes to your contact or health details as soon as possible to help us maintain accurate records and continue providing quality care.

10. Policy Updates

This Privacy Policy may be updated periodically to reflect legislative changes or changes to our service operations. The latest version will always be available on our website.

11. Complaints and Feedback

If you have any concerns about how your personal information has been managed, please contact: core.dbtskills@gmail.com. We will acknowledge your complaint, investigate the issue, and respond promptly. If you are not satisfied with our response, you may contact the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC) on 1300 363 992 or visit www.oaic.gov.au.

This policy ensures compliance with the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth), Australian Privacy Principles (2014), Health Records Act 2001 (Vic), and mental health confidentiality and ethical standards

Last updated Jan 2026

 Your Rights

At CORE DBT Skills, we believe every person accessing our services deserves to feel respected, safe, and empowered. You have the right to:

1. Respect, Dignity, and Non-Discrimination

• Be treated with courtesy, kindness, and respect at all times.
• Receive services free from discrimination based on gender, culture, race, religion, ability, sexual orientation, or background.
• Have your cultural identity, values, and personal preferences recognised and respected in your care.

2. Privacy and Confidentiality

• Have your personal and health information kept private and secure, as detailed in the Privacy and Confidentiality Policy
• Be informed about how your information is collected, stored, and shared.
• Know that your information will only be shared with your consent, unless required by law or if there is a risk of harm to yourself or others.

3. Safety and Quality Care

• Receive services from qualified and ethical professionals who hold appropriate registration and undertake supervision.
• Be supported in a safe environment that fosters your physical and emotional wellbeing.
• Expect services are delivered with care, skill, and interventions are informed by evidence-based practice.

4. Informed Choice and Control

• Receive clear, understandable information about services offered, including fees, risks, and treatment options.
• Be involved in decisions about your care and treatment goals.
• Provide or withdraw consent at any time.
• Request a change of therapist if you believe it is in your best interest.

5. Access and Participation

• Access services in a fair and timely manner.
• Have a support person, advocate, or interpreter present during sessions if you choose.
• Provide feedback or make a complaint without fear of discrimination or retribution.

6. Feedback and Complaints

• Have your feedback, suggestions, or complaints taken seriously and addressed promptly.
• Be informed of the process and outcome of any complaint.
• Escalate concerns externally to the Office of the Health Complaints Commissioner (Victoria) or the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC) if not resolved internally

Your Responsibilities

To ensure we can provide safe and effective care, we expect clients to:

1. Respect and Courtesy

• Treat staff, other clients, and the practice environment with respect and courtesy
• Refrain from behaviour that is aggressive, threatening, or discriminatory.

2. Participation in Care

• Engage honestly and openly with your therapist to support your treatment goals.
• Inform your therapist of any relevant changes in your health, medications, or circumstances that may impact your care.
• Take an active role in developing and reviewing your treatment plan.

3. Attendance and Communication

• Attend scheduled appointments or provide at least 24 hours’ notice if you need to cancel or reschedule.
• Understand that late cancellations or missed appointments may incur a fee.
• Respond promptly to communication from the practice where follow-up is required.

4. Financial Responsibility

• Be aware of and agree to the service fees before starting therapy.
• Pay fees according to agreed payment terms or funding arrangements (such as Medicare, NDIS, private payment)

5. Privacy and Safety

• Respect the privacy of other clients and maintain the confidentiality of any group or shared programs.
• Notify us immediately if you have concerns about your safety or the safety of others.

6. Feedback and Communication

• Provide honest feedback about your experience to help us improve our services.
• Let us know if you have concerns so we can work together to resolve them.

Complaints and External Support

If you have concerns about your care or believe your rights have not been upheld, please contact core.dbtskills@gmail.com. If your concern is not resolved, you may contact:

• Health Complaints Commissioner (Victoria): 1300 582 11 | www.hcc.vic.gov.au
• Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (Privacy matters): 1300 363 992 | www.oaic.gov.au

This document aligns with the Australian Charter of Healthcare Rights (2020), Health Records Act 2001 (Vic), Privacy Act 1988 (Cth), and the NDIS Code of Conduct (where applicable).

Last updated Jan 2026

 1. Purpose

These Terms and Conditions establish the agreement between CORE DBT Skills (“we”, “our”, “us”) and our clients (“you”, “your”) who engage in our therapeutic and wellbeing services. By booking an appointment, attending sessions, or using our website, you agree to comply with these Terms. For any questions regarding these Terms, please contact us at core.dbtskills@gmail.com.

2. Our Services

We offer a structured Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) program, designed to provide accessible support to individuals experiencing emotional regulation difficulties 

Our 10 week DBT program includes:

• 10 group psychoeducation sessions covering core DBT skills
• 10 weekly individual therapy sessions to personalise and consolidate group learning 

All services are delivered by qualified professionals who work within their professional scope, adhere to ethical guidelines, and comply with relevant legislation. We regularly review the support provided to ensure it meets your needs. If your needs are outside our scope or expertise, we will discuss suitable referral options and assist with transition to another provider.

3. Client Responsibilities

As a client, you agree to:

• Provide accurate and complete personal, medical, and contact information.
• Attend appointments punctually and give at least 24 hours’ notice for cancellations or rescheduling.
• Engage honestly and openly with your therapist to support your treatment goals.
• Treat all staff and other clients with respect and courtesy.
• Notify your therapist of any changes in circumstances or health that may affect your care.
• Pay service fees as outlined in the Fees and Payment section.

Failure to comply with these responsibilities may affect our ability to continue providing services. Aggressive or unsafe behaviour will not be tolerated and may result in the termination of services.

4. Legal and Ethical Practice

We provide services in accordance with relevant legislation and professional standards, including:

• Health Records Act 2001 (Vic)
• Privacy Act 1988 (Cth)
• NDIS Code of Conduct (where applicable)
• AASW Code of Ethics (2020)
• Mental Health and Wellbeing Act 2022 (Vic)

5. Confidentiality and Privacy

All information shared during sessions is treated as confidential and is managed in accordance with our Privacy and Confidentiality Policy and relevant legislation. However, confidentiality may be breached if:

• There is a risk of serious harm to you or someone else.
• Disclosure is required by law or court order

For further details, please refer to our Privacy and Confidentiality Policy, which is available on our website.

6. Informed Consent

Before commencing therapy, you will receive clear information about:

• The nature and purpose of therapy
• Expected benefits and potential risks
• Fees, cancellation policies, and reporting obligations
• Limits to confidentiality

You can withdraw your consent or discontinue therapy at any time.

7. Appointments and Cancellations

Standard individual sessions are 50 minutes in length and group sessions are 90 minutes in length. Please arrive on time, as late arrivals may result in a shorter session. At least 24 hours’ notice is required to cancel or reschedule an appointment. Less than 24 hours’ notice, or missing a session, will incur full fees, except in exceptional circumstances. This policy ensures fair access to services and respect for your therapist’s time.

8. Fees and Payments

Our current fees are listed on www.core-dbtskills.com 

Payment is required on or before the day of the appointment via secure online processing through Halaxy. If you do not wish to store your payment details, we will issue an invoice or payment link, which must be paid 24 hours before your appointment. Invoices and receipts are available upon request. Fees include time for brief note-taking and follow up. Failure to make payment may result in cancellation or suspension of services.

9. Telehealth Services

Telehealth sessions (via video link) are the primary modality of support available. By participating via telehealth, you acknowledge that:

• The same standards of confidentiality apply
• You are responsible for maintaining privacy at your location
• Technical issues may occasionally disrupt sessions, and efforts will be made to reconnect or reschedule as needed
• We use secure, encrypted platforms; however, online communication carries some inherent risks

Recording sessions is strictly prohibited. Any unauthorised recording, storing, or transmitting of session content will result in immediate termination of services and may lead to further action.

10. Clinical Documentation and Use of Heidi

Heidi, a secure clinical documentation tool, may be used to record session notes efficiently and accurately. Heidi supports professional practice but does not replace therapist judgment. Your data is handled securely, de-identified where appropriate, and stored in compliance with privacy laws.

By proceeding with sessions, you consent to the use of Heidi. You may withdraw consent at any time without affecting your care. For more information visit www.heidihealth.com

11. Professional Boundaries

Therapeutic relationships are strictly professional. To maintain ethical standards:

• Personal or social relationships between therapists and clients are not permitted.
• Communication outside sessions is limited to scheduling or administrative matters.

Breaches of boundaries may result in the termination of services.

12. Records and Documentation

Client records are stored securely and confidentially for at least seven years after the last contact (or until a minor turns 25 years old). You may request access to your records in writing. All storage and destruction of records comply with privacy and ethical obligations.

13. Duty of Care

Therapy may involve emotional discomfort or recollection of difficult experiences. You acknowledge that participation is voluntary and emotional responses are a normal part of the healing process. If you are in crisis or immediate danger, you should contact 000 or Lifeline (13 11 14). We take reasonable steps to maintain a safe therapeutic environment at all times, and your therapist will discuss risk and safety plans as required.

14. Crisis Support

CORE DBT Skills is not a crisis service. If you require urgent support, please contact:

• Emergency Services: 000
• Lifeline: 13 11 14
• Suicide Line Victoria: 1300 651 251
• Your local area mental health service
• Your local Emergency Department

15. Feedback and Complaints

We welcome all feedback and aim to address concerns promptly and respectfully. If you have feedback or a complaint, please contact core.dbtskills@gmail.com

If your concern cannot be resolved internally, you may contact the Health Complaints Commissioner (Victoria) at 1300 582 113 or visit www.hcc.vic.gov.au.

16. Changes to These Terms

We may update these Terms periodically to reflect changes in services, law, or policy.
The most recent version will always be available on our website or upon request.

17. Acceptance of Terms

By booking, attending or engaging in services provided by CORE DBT Skills, you confirm that you have read, understood, and agree to these Terms and Conditions; and consent to receive services in accordance with this policy.

Last updated Jan 2026