Policies
Our Commitment to Transparency and Excellence: NZACH Policy Page
Welcome to the Policy Page of the New Zealand Academy of Clinical Hypnotherapy, where we uphold our commitment to transparency, integrity, and the highest standards of professional conduct. This page is an essential resource for students, faculty, and anyone interested in our academy, providing clear and detailed information about our operational policies, ethical guidelines, and educational standards.
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At NZACH, we believe in the importance of clear communication and well-defined policies to ensure a positive and productive learning environment. Here, you will find comprehensive information on various aspects, including enrolment procedures, code of conduct, privacy policies, and guidelines for student and faculty interactions. Our policies are designed to safeguard the interests of all members of the NZACH community, fostering an atmosphere of mutual respect, responsibility, and continuous learning.
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Whether you are a prospective student, current learner, or a faculty member, we encourage you to familiarize yourself with these policies to better understand the framework within which we operate. Our policies reflect our dedication to excellence in clinical hypnotherapy education and our commitment to maintaining a supportive, inclusive, and ethical educational setting.
Explore our policy page to gain insights into how we manage and uphold the standards that make NZACH a leading institution in clinical hypnotherapy training.
NZACH cookie privacy policy
1. Introduction
The New Zealand Academy of Clinical Hypnotherapy (NZACH) respects the privacy of all visitors to our website. This Cookie Policy outlines our policy concerning the use of cookies on the NZACH website. We may update our Cookie Policy from time to time to reflect any changes in technology or legislation or our data use practices which may affect the way in which cookies are used by us and how you as a user can manage them.
2. What are cookies?
Cookies are small text files sent from a website and stored in the user’s web browser while the user is browsing that website. Every time the user loads the website, the browser sends the cookie back to the server to notify the website of the user’s previous activity.
3. How does NZACH use cookies?
We may use information obtained from cookies to improve the users’ experience when using our website by:
🌿 ​Enabling a service to recognise your device so you don’t have to provide the same information multiple times.
🌿 Recognising that you may have already given a username and password, so you don’t need to do it for every web page requested.
🌿 Measuring how many people are using services, ensuring ease of usage and sufficient capacity to ensure fast load times.
🌿 Analysing anonymised data to help us understand how people interact with our website, so we can make it better.
4. Managing & disabling cookies
Most browsers automatically accept cookies, but you can usually change your browser settings to limit or prevent cookies. Cookies can be disabled or removed by tools available as part of most commercial browsers, and websites can be set to block cookies. However, if they are blocked, some website functionality may be lost. Each browser and device is different, so check the settings menu of the browser or device to learn how to change cookie preferences.
5. Third-party cookies
NZACH may embed external content from third-party websites (e.g., Facebook, Twitter, YouTube) within our website. These websites may utilise cookies, and the privacy policy of these third parties relates to their use of cookies.
6. More information
For more details about cookies and how to manage them, visit www.allaboutcookies.org.
Privacy policy for the website student information
Health information privacy policy
1. Mental health considerations in hypnotherapy
At NZACH, we recognise the importance of mental wellbeing and the potential impacts of hypnotherapy on various mental health conditions. In accordance with New Zealand law and professional best practices, we take the following considerations into account.
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2. Assessment of suitability
Prior to undertaking any hypnotherapy training or practice, it is essential to assess whether there are any mental health conditions that could influence the individual's response to hypnotherapy. Conditions such as psychotic disorders, severe personality disorders, severe depression or bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), epilepsy, dissociative disorders, substance abuse, or significant cognitive impairments may require special consideration or may indicate that hypnotherapy is not the most appropriate approach.
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3. Collection of mental health information
🌿We will ask for information regarding mental health in a sensitive and confidential manner.
🌿 Collection of such information will be directly related to the services provided and only with the individual’s informed consent.
🌿 The purpose of collecting this information is to ensure the safety and efficacy of hypnotherapy provided by NZACH.
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4. Use and disclosure
🌿 Information regarding an individual's mental health will only be used to tailor our training and services appropriately and will not be disclosed without consent, except as required by law.
🌿 We will only discuss this information within the treatment team, and only as necessary to ensure the highest quality of care.
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5. Consent
🌿 Individuals will be provided with clear information regarding the reasons for collecting mental health information and how it will be used.
🌿 Consent will be obtained in writing, ensuring that individuals are making an informed decision to participate in hypnotherapy services.
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6. Confidentiality and security
🌿 We uphold strict confidentiality protocols and secure storage systems to protect sensitive mental health information.
🌿 Access to this information is strictly limited to qualified professionals who are directly involved in delivering services to the individual.
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7. Right to access and correct
Individuals have the right to access their personal health information and to request corrections if they believe any information is incorrect.
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8. Training and support for NZACH staff
NZACH commits to providing ongoing training and support for all staff members to ensure they are equipped to handle mental health information with the utmost sensitivity and professionalism.
9. Collection of personal information
We collect personal information from you when you fill out a form on our site.
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10. Use of personal information
Any of the information we collect from you may be used to personalise your experience, improve our website, and address customer service requests.
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11. Protection of personal information
We implement a variety of security measures to maintain the safety of your personal information.
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12. Disclosure to third parties
We do not sell, trade, or otherwise transfer your personally identifiable information to outside parties.
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13. Changes to privacy policy
We reserve the right to change our privacy policy at any time. Any changes will be posted on this page.
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14. Compliance and updates
This policy will be reviewed regularly to ensure continued compliance with the Health Information Privacy Code and the Privacy Act 2020.
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For further enquiries or to access or correct personal health information, please contact:
Student Confidentiality Policy
1. Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to establish guidelines for the protection and confidentiality of personal information pertaining to students enrolled at the New Zealand Academy of Clinical Hypnotherapy (NZACH). This policy aims to foster an environment of respect, trust, and integrity among students and staff.
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2. Scope
This policy applies to all students, faculty, staff, and any other individuals who may have access to personal information of students at NZACH.
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3. Policy statement
​NZACH is committed to respecting the privacy and confidentiality of all students' personal information. The academy recognises that the personal and sensitive nature of this information requires careful handling and protection to maintain each individual's dignity, rights, and trust.
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4. Collection and use of information
​🌿 Personal information must only be collected for legitimate academic and administrative purposes and handled in accordance with NZACH’s privacy policies and the Privacy Act 2020.
​🌿 Access to personal information is strictly limited to individuals who require it for the performance of their duties or for the purposes for which the information was provided.
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5. Responsibility of students
​🌿 Students are expected to uphold the confidentiality of personal information they may come into contact with regarding fellow students. This includes, but is not limited to, information discussed during classroom activities, group work, and any written or electronic records.
​🌿 Students must not disclose or discuss any personal information about fellow students outside of the necessary academic context.
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6. Breach of confidentiality
​🌿 Any breach of this policy may result in disciplinary action, which could include, but is not limited to, formal warnings, suspension, or expulsion from the academy.
🌿 Students who believe their confidentiality has been breached should report the matter to the academy administration immediately.
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7. Training and awareness
NZACH will provide ongoing training and awareness resources to ensure that all members of the academy understand their obligations under this policy and the importance of respecting fellow students’ confidentiality.
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8. Review and compliance
🌿 Compliance with this policy will be regularly monitored, and the policy will be reviewed annually to ensure it remains up-to-date with current legal standards and best practices.
🌿 Any updates or changes to this policy will be communicated to all members of the academy in a timely manner.
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9. Questions
🌿 Any questions regarding this policy or its implementation should be directed to the designated privacy officer or the academy administration.
Certificate in Hypnotherapy
Cancellation & Refund Policy
At the New Zealand Academy of Clinical Hypnotherapy (NZACH), we are committed to delivering the highest quality education and training in hypnotherapy. We recognise the importance of mental well-being for effective learning and the safe practice of hypnotherapy. Therefore, in conjunction with our cancellation and refund policy, we also have a pre-enrolment screening process to ensure the safety and suitability of hypnotherapy training for all our students.
Pre-enrolment mental health screening
Before enrolling, prospective students will be asked to disclose any history of mental health conditions, particularly those such as psychotic disorders, severe personality disorders, severe depression or bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), epilepsy, dissociative disorders, substance abuse, or significant cognitive impairments. This information will be collected with full confidentiality and in compliance with the Privacy Act 2020 and the Health Information Privacy Code. The purpose of this is to ensure that hypnotherapy training is delivered in a manner that is mindful of each individual's mental health and well-being.
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Cancellation and refund details
1. Adherence to code of conduct and disclosure policy
​By enrolling in this course, students confirm that they have read, understood, and agreed to adhere to the academy's Code of Conduct and Mental Health Screening Policy. Failure to adhere to these or provide a complete and accurate disclosure may result in dismissal from the course without a refund.
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2. Cancellation notice
🌿 Please notify us in writing at info@meredithmccarthy.com if you need to cancel your enrolment.
🌿 A cancellation made more than 48 hours before the start of the course will be eligible for a refund of the course fee minus a $500 non-refundable deposit.
🌿 Cancellations made within 48 hours of the course start date will not be eligible for a refund.
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3. Non-completion of training
If a student chooses not to complete the training once it has begun, no refund will be provided, and the course fees will not be refunded under any circumstances.
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4. Rescheduling training
Requests to resume or restart training at a later date must be made in writing to info@meredithmccarthy.com and are valid for one year from the original start date, subject to availability and academy discretion.
5. Academy's discretion
In exceptional circumstances, such as serious illness (with proper documentation), bereavement, or other significant personal situations, the academy may, at its sole discretion, offer a partial refund or transfer fees to a future course.
6. Course cancellation by the academy
In the unlikely event the academy must cancel the training, a full refund or an option to transfer enrolment to another date will be provided.
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Criminal Convictions Policy
​1. Purpose
​🌿​The purpose of this policy is to outline the New Zealand Academy of Clinical Hypnotherapy's (NZACH) approach to applicants and students who have criminal convictions. NZACH is committed to providing a safe and supportive learning environment while also promoting rehabilitation and avoiding discrimination.
2. Disclosure
🌿 All applicants are required to disclose any criminal convictions as part of their application process. This does not include any convictions that are considered ‘spent’ under the Clean Slate Act 2004 or other relevant legislation.
🌿 The disclosure of a criminal conviction will not automatically bar an individual from admission to NZACH; however, failure to disclose a relevant conviction that is later discovered may lead to disciplinary action or revocation of admission.
3. Assessment
Each disclosure of a criminal conviction will be assessed on a case-by-case basis considering factors such as
🌿 The nature and seriousness of the offence
🌿 The relevance of the offence to the field of clinical hypnotherapy
🌿 The length of time since the offence occurred
🌿 Any evidence of rehabilitation or positive conduct since the time of the offense
🌿 Confidentiality
🌿 All information related to criminal convictions will be treated confidentially and will only be used for the purpose of assessing an individual’s suitability for admission and participation in courses offered by NZACH.
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4. Support
NZACH is committed to supporting students with criminal convictions and will provide access to resources and guidance to facilitate their successful participation in their chosen course of study.
5. Legal compliance
This policy will be applied in accordance with all relevant New Zealand laws, including but not limited to the Privacy Act 2020, the New Zealand Bill of Rights Act 1990, and the Human Rights Act 1993.
6. Policy review
This policy is subject to regular review to ensure it remains compliant with all legal requirements and reflects the values and principles of NZACH.
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Complaints Policy
1. Introduction
The NZACH is committed to providing a high standard of service and professional care. We recognise that there may be times when clients or stakeholders feel that the quality of service or conduct of our staff does not meet their expectations. This policy outlines our approach to managing complaints.
2. Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to ensure all complaints are handled fairly, efficiently, and effectively.
3. Scope
This policy applies to all students, staff, and other stakeholders of NZACH.
4. Principles
🌿 Fairness: Complaints will be dealt with impartially and every effort will be made to resolve them amicably.
🌿 Confidentiality: All complaints will be treated with respect for the privacy and confidentiality of all involved.
🌿 Accessibility: The process for making a complaint will be easy to understand and accessible to all.
🌿 Transparency: We will be clear about our process for handling complaints and provide feedback on the outcome.
5. Making a Complaint
🌿 Complaints should be raised as soon as possible after the event or issue occurs.
🌿 Complaints can be made verbally or in writing. Written complaints may be sent by email or post.
🌿 If you require assistance in making a complaint due to disability or language barriers, we will provide appropriate support.
6. Complaints Process
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Receipt of Complaint: All complaints will be acknowledged within 5 working days of receipt.
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Investigation: Complaints will be investigated thoroughly and impartially.
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Response: A formal response will be provided within 20 working days. If the investigation is ongoing, an interim response will be sent with an indication of the time frame for a full response.
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Resolution: Steps will be taken to resolve the complaint to the satisfaction of all parties, where possible.
7. Appeals
If you are dissatisfied with the response to your complaint, you may request a review. The appeal should be made within 10 working days of receiving our response.
8. Record Keeping
Records of all complaints and their outcomes will be maintained securely and confidentially.
9. Policy Review
This policy will be reviewed annually to ensure it remains effective and compliant with best practice and legal requirements.
Contact Information
For complaints or enquiries about this policy, please contact:
​Code of conduct and ethics for the New Zealand academy of clinical hypnotherapy
1. Purpose
To ensure that all students, faculty, and practitioners adhere to the highest standards of ethical and professional behavior during their association with the New Zealand Academy of Clinical Hypnotherapy and in their professional practice.
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2. Scope
This Code applies to all individuals associated with the New Zealand Academy of Clinical Hypnotherapy, including students, faculty, staff, and alumni.
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3. Principles
🌿 Professionalism
Maintain the highest standards of professionalism in all interactions and practices. Uphold the dignity, honor, and efficiency of the profession of hypnotherapy.
🌿 Confidentiality
Respect and uphold the confidentiality of all interactions with clients, classmates, and faculty. Ensure all personal and health information remains private, as mandated by New Zealand's Privacy Act 2020.
🌿 Integrity
Be honest in all professional interactions. Avoid actions that might result in a conflict of interest or misuse of one's professional position.
🌿 Respect
Treat everyone, regardless of race, gender, age, nationality, disability, socioeconomic status, or religion, with dignity and respect. This aligns with New Zealand's Human Rights Act 1993.
🌿 Safety and Wellbeing
Prioritise the safety and well-being of all clients. Never cause harm, either intentionally or due to negligence.
🌿 Competence
Ensure that you only practice within your area of competence. Continuous education and updating of skills is a must.
🌿 Accountability
Take responsibility for one's actions and be answerable to clients, peers, and the governing bodies.
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4. Client interactions
🌿 Informed Consent
Always seek informed consent from clients before initiating any therapeutic procedure, as outlined in New Zealand's Code of Health and Disability Services Consumers' Rights 1996.
🌿 Boundaries
Maintain clear professional boundaries with clients. Avoid dual relationships that might impair professional judgment or exploit the client.
🌿 Non-discrimination
Do not discriminate against clients or treat them unfairly based on any grounds.
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5. Professional development
🌿 Continuous Learning
Commit to lifelong learning and stay updated with the latest advancements in the field of hypnotherapy.
🌿 Peer Interaction
Engage with peers for shared learning, feedback, and to ensure best practices are being followed.
🌿 Supervision
Actively seek and participate in supervision sessions when needed, especially when dealing with challenging cases.
6. Misconduct reporting
🌿 Whistleblowing
Any member of the New Zealand Academy of Clinical Hypnotherapy who has concerns about a fellow member's conduct should report it, ensuring that any potential harm can be addressed.
🌿 Investigation
All reports of misconduct will be investigated with due diligence, fairness, and confidentiality.
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7. Breaches
Any breaches of this Code of Conduct and Ethics may result in disciplinary actions, including expulsion from the academy, revocation of certification, or legal actions if mandated by New Zealand law.
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Disciplinary actions & instant dismissal policies of the New Zealand academy of clinical hypnotherapy
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1. Grounds for disciplinary actions
🌿 Minor Offences
These may include but are not limited to tardiness, minor disruptions in class, or failing to adhere to classroom decorum.
🌿 Major Offences
These can range from academic dishonesty (plagiarism, cheating) to harassment or bullying of fellow students or staff.
2. Disciplinary procedures
🌿 Initial Reporting
Any offense, whether perceived or confirmed, must be reported to the concerned faculty or administrative head.
🌿 Investigation
Every report will be treated with utmost seriousness. A fair and comprehensive investigation will be initiated, with the parties involved being interviewed.
🌿 First-time minor offences
These may result in a warning or require the student to attend counseling or a remedial session. The student might also be asked to render an apology to the aggrieved parties.
🌿 Recurring minor offences
If a student continues to repeat minor offences, even after initial warnings, stricter actions may be taken. These can range from probation periods to suspension for a limited time.
🌿 Major offences
Consequences for major offences, even if they're first-time occurrences, can be severe. They can range from suspension to expulsion, depending on the gravity of the situation.
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3. Instant dismissal policy
Certain behaviours are so egregious that they may warrant immediate dismissal from the Academy.
🌿 Physical Violence: Any form of physical violence against a peer, staff member, or any individual on the Academy's premises.
🌿 Sexual Harassment or Misconduct: Any unwelcome behaviour of a sexual nature that creates an intimidating or hostile environment.
🌿 Theft or Vandalism: Stealing or intentionally damaging property belonging to the Academy, its staff, or students.
🌿 Substance Abuse: Use, possession, or distribution of illegal drugs or consumption of alcohol during Academy hours or on its premises or being drunk or under the influence of drugs.
🌿 Breach of Confidentiality: Sharing confidential information related to clients, fellow students, which can harm the Academy's reputation or the clients themselves.
🌿 Misrepresentation: Providing false information during the admission process or forging any documents related to the Academy.
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4. Right to appeal
Every student has the right to appeal a disciplinary decision, including instant dismissal. The appeal should be lodged within 14 days of the disciplinary action. The Academy will then review the appeal, after which the decision will be final.
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5. Rehabilitation and re-entry
For students who show genuine remorse and have taken steps towards rehabilitation (e.g., attending counselling sessions, community service), the Academy may consider their re-entry after a specified period. However, the final decision rests with the Academy's disciplinary board.