Australians! If you see a psychologist, what are privacy laws like?

Question

If things which happened to a person as a child, (and im asking out of interest because a friend and i were debating it today in conversation)

like, ie, molestation, would a psychologist that you tell it to be forced to contact police even though the situation is over and the victim is an adult who just wants emotional help?

Answer 1

No

Answer 2

Psychologists cannot breach confidentiality unless there is a serious risk of harm to the person or to others (ie; threatening to kill/harm yourself, or someone else).  If it were a child, it would have to be reported.  As an adult, the confidentiality would not be breached - a psychologist might make you aware of your options however (and inform you that you have the right to contact police and report the incident if you wish), but would not force it if you didn't want to (they have to act within your best interests).  If you're unsure, ask your psychologist about situations in which they are able to breach confidentiality for peace of mind!