Terms & Conditions, Refund, and Cancellation Policies

Practice Name: Leila Bolland Private Social Worker

Website: www.privatesocialworker.co.za

Last Updated: 15 August 2026

Welcome to the website of Leila Bolland Private Social Worker. By accessing this website and utilizing our services, you agree to be bound by the following policies. Please read them carefully.

Terms and Conditions

1. Professional Services

The services provided encompass professional social work, counseling, and related support, offered both in-person and online. All services are conducted ethically and professionally, in strict accordance with the guidelines set forth by the South African Council for Social Service Professions (SACSSP).

2. Minors and Consent

If the client is a minor (under the age of 18), written consent from a parent or legal guardian is legally required before therapy can commence. In cases of joint custody, consent may be required from both legal guardians. Parents/guardians are expected to be involved in the therapeutic process as agreed upon during the initial consultation.

3. Telehealth (Online Sessions)

For clients utilizing online therapy services:

  • Privacy: Clients are responsible for ensuring they are in a private, quiet space where they will not be interrupted or overheard during the session.
  • Technology: We utilize secure platforms for telehealth. However, confidentiality cannot be 100% guaranteed due to the inherent risks of the internet.
  • Disruptions: If a session experiences significant technical difficulties or a dropped connection, we will attempt to reconnect or continue the session via a standard phone call. If this is not possible, the remainder of the session will be rescheduled.

4. Not an Emergency Service

Our practice does not operate as an emergency medical or psychiatric facility. If you are experiencing a life-threatening emergency, feeling suicidal, or require immediate assistance, please proceed to your nearest hospital emergency room, or contact:

  • The South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG): 0800 567 567
  • South African Police Service (SAPS): 10111

5. Confidentiality & Privacy (POPIA)

Your privacy is of utmost importance. All personal information and session notes are treated as strictly confidential in compliance with the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA). Information will only be disclosed to third parties under the following conditions:

  • With your explicit, written consent.
  • If the social worker assesses a serious, imminent threat of harm to yourself or others.
  • In the case of suspected or disclosed child abuse or neglect.
  • If subpoenaed or mandated by a court of law.

6. Fees and Payment

  • Initial Session: Payment for your first session is strictly required upfront to secure your booking. This can be paid securely via Payfast or EFT.
  • Subsequent Sessions: Payment for all ongoing sessions is due immediately after the session concludes, payable via Payfast or EFT.
  • Medical Aid: If you intend to claim from a medical aid, you are still responsible for settling the account directly with the practice. An invoice will be provided to you after payment, which you can then submit to your medical aid for reimbursement.

7. Governing Law

These terms shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the Republic of South Africa.

Cancellation and Refund Policy

Consistency is a vital part of the therapeutic process. When you book an appointment, that time is reserved exclusively for you.

1. Cancellation Policy

We require a minimum of 24 hours’ notice if you need to cancel or reschedule an appointment.

  • Late Cancellations: Appointments canceled or rescheduled with less than 24 hours’ notice will be charged at 100% of the standard session fee.
  • No-Shows: Failure to attend a scheduled appointment without any prior notification will result in a 100% charge for the missed session.
  • Note: Medical aids do not cover missed or late-canceled appointments; therefore, these fees will be strictly for your personal account.

2. Refund Policy

  • Completed Services: Due to the nature of professional time, preparation, and expertise provided, we do not offer refunds for counseling sessions or services that have already been rendered.
  • Pre-paid Sessions: If you have paid for your initial session in advance and cancel it prior to the 24-hour window, you may request to have the payment held as a credit for a future rescheduled session, or refunded in full. Refunds for valid cancellations will be processed within 7–14 business days via EFT.