Samantha Atherton Naturopathy Terms of Service

Effective date: 29/09/2026

Welcome,

Thank you for your interest in Samantha Atherton Naturopathy.  My goal is to provide compassionate, evidence-informed naturopathic care in a supportive and respectful environment. I believe that good healthcare begins with listening, understanding your individual health journey, and working collaboratively to develop realistic, sustainable strategies that support your wellbeing. These Client Terms of Service explain what you can expect when working with me, including how appointments are conducted, how telehealth consultations operate, payment and booking policies, and our respective rights and responsibilities. Please take a few moments to read these terms before booking an appointment. By booking a consultation, you acknowledge that you have read, understood and agree to these Terms, together with my Privacy Policy.

About Samantha Atherton Naturopathy

Samantha Atherton Naturopathy provides personalised naturopathic healthcare to clients throughout Australia via secure telehealth consultations. I am a degree-qualified naturopath and a member of the Australian Traditional Medicine Society (ATMS). My practice is guided by current evidence, traditional naturopathic principles, and a commitment to providing compassionate, client-centred care.

Scope of Naturopathic Care

Naturopathy is a complementary healthcare profession that focuses on supporting health through nutrition, lifestyle medicine, herbal medicine and other evidence-informed natural therapies.

During our consultations I may recommend:

  • dietary and nutritional advice
  • lifestyle modifications
  • herbal medicines
  • nutritional supplements
  • interpretation of relevant pathology or functional testing
  • health education and preventative strategies
  • referrals to other healthcare practitioners where appropriate.

Recommendations are based on the information available at the time of your consultation and are intended to support your overall health and wellbeing. Naturopathic care is designed to complement—not replace—the care provided by your general practitioner, medical specialist or other registered healthcare professionals

Limitations of Naturopathic Care

Naturopathic care is a complementary healthcare service and is not intended to replace emergency care, medical diagnosis, medical treatment or advice provided by your doctor or other registered healthcare professionals. While I take care to provide recommendations based on your individual circumstances and the information available to me, I cannot guarantee specific health outcomes. Your response to recommendations may be influenced by many factors, including your individual health history, genetics, lifestyle, environment and ability to implement changes.

You remain responsible for making decisions about your own healthcare and are encouraged to seek further information or advice whenever you feel it is needed.

Professional Standards & Ethical Practice

As a naturopath, I am a health practitioner who is not registered under the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) National Registration and Accreditation Scheme. In South Australia, Unregistered health practitioners, including naturopaths, are expected to practise in accordance with the Code of Conduct for Certain Health Care Workers as established under applicable Australian legislation. I am committed to providing care that is safe, respectful, ethical and centred around the wellbeing of my clients. My practice is guided by professional standards, ongoing education, informed consent principles and a commitment to maintaining appropriate professional boundaries.

I aim to provide care that:

  • respects each client’s individual circumstances, values and choices;
  • provides clear information to support informed decision-making;
  • recognises the importance of working collaboratively with other healthcare providers;
  • maintains appropriate confidentiality and professional boundaries;
  • acknowledges the limits of my scope of practice and refers to other healthcare professionals where appropriate.

I am committed to continually developing my knowledge and skills to support high-quality naturopathic care. If you would like to view the Code of Conduct for Certain Health Care Worker’s, please click on the link below.

Informed Consent

Before beginning naturopathic care, it is important that you understand the nature of the services provided and feel comfortable proceeding. By booking and attending a consultation with Samantha Atherton Naturopathy, you acknowledge that:

  • Naturopathic care is a complementary healthcare service intended to support your overall health and wellbeing.
  • Recommendations may include nutrition, lifestyle strategies, herbal medicines, nutritional supplements and other naturopathic approaches where appropriate.
  • Recommendations are based on the information available at the time of consultation.
  • Individual responses to healthcare recommendations vary, and no specific outcomes or results can be guaranteed.
  • You have the right to ask questions, seek clarification and make informed choices about your care.
  • You may choose not to follow any recommendation or may discontinue care at any time.

I encourage open discussion throughout our work together. If you have concerns about any aspect of your care, please raise them so we can discuss the best way forward.

Privacy

Your privacy matters.

A detailed explanation of how I collect, use, store and protect your personal information is available in my Privacy Policy. By engaging with Samantha Atherton Naturopathy, you acknowledge that you have had the opportunity to review the Privacy Policy and understand how your information is managed.

Confidentiality & Your Health Information

Respecting your privacy and maintaining confidentiality is a fundamental part of my practice.

Information shared during your consultations, including your health history, symptoms, treatment recommendations and personal circumstances, will be treated confidentially.

Your information will only be disclosed where:

  • you provide consent;
  • disclosure is required or authorised by law;
  • disclosure is necessary to protect your safety or the safety of another person;
  • information is shared with another healthcare provider with your permission or where otherwise permitted by law.

Your personal information is managed in accordance with my Privacy Policy.

Clinical Records

Clinical records are maintained to support safe and effective care. Records may include information such as:

  • health history;
  • consultation notes;
  • recommendations;
  • correspondence relating to your care;
  • relevant test results or information provided by you.

Records are stored securely and retained in accordance with applicable Australian privacy obligations and professional requirements. You may request access to your personal information in accordance with applicable privacy legislation. Requests can be made by contacting Samantha Atherton Naturopathy.

Telehealth Consultation Consent

Samantha Atherton Naturopathy provides consultations via telehealth to clients throughout Australia. Telehealth consultations are conducted via HealthBank appointments app. Healthbank is a secure, HIPAA compliant platform. By choosing a telehealth consultation, you acknowledge and consent to receiving naturopathic care remotely. Telehealth allows convenient access to healthcare support; however, it has some limitations compared with an in-person consultation.

You understand that:

  • A physical examination may not be possible during a telehealth consultation.
  • The quality of your consultation may be affected by internet connection, device issues or technical difficulties.
  • You are responsible for ensuring you attend your appointment from a private and appropriate location.
  • You should not participate in consultations while driving or undertaking activities where your attention is required.
  • If a telehealth consultation is not clinically appropriate for your circumstances, you may be advised to seek an alternative form of care.

I will take reasonable steps to protect the privacy and confidentiality of your consultation. However, no online platform can guarantee complete security, and you are responsible for ensuring your own device and internet connection are appropriately protected. You may withdraw your consent to telehealth at any time by contacting Samantha Atherton Naturopathy.

Working Together: A Collaborative Approach to Care

I believe the most meaningful health changes happen when we work together.

Your health is personal, and your experience, goals, circumstances and preferences all matter. My role is to listen to your health story, provide education, explain your options and offer personalised recommendations that support your individual needs. Your role is to share information openly, ask questions, consider the recommendations provided, and make decisions about your care that feel appropriate for you. 

My Commitment to You

When you choose to work with Samantha Atherton Naturopathy, you can expect:

  • A respectful and supportive environment where you feel comfortable sharing your health concerns.
  • Care that considers your individual health history, goals, lifestyle and circumstances.
  • Recommendations that are personalised rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.
  • Clear explanations so you can understand your options and make informed decisions.
  • Honest communication about what naturopathic care may be able to support and where additional healthcare support may be appropriate.
  • A commitment to ongoing learning and providing care that reflects current knowledge and professional standards.

I recognise that seeking support for your health can feel vulnerable. My intention is to create a space where you feel listened to, respected and supported throughout your health journey.

Your Role in Your Care

To support safe and effective care, I ask that you:

  • Provide accurate and complete information about your health history, symptoms, medications, supplements, allergies and relevant lifestyle factors.
  • Let me know if there are changes to your health, medications or circumstances that may affect your recommendations.
  • Ask questions whenever something is unclear or you would like further explanation.
  • Follow up with your GP, specialist or other healthcare providers when recommended.
  • Let me know if you have concerns about any recommendations or if something does not feel right for you.

Your openness and communication help me provide care that is as safe, appropriate and personalised as possible.

Samantha Atherton Naturopathy – Clinic Information

Everything you need to know about the process

Telehealth Consultations

All consultations are provided via secure telehealth platforms, allowing you to access care from the comfort of your own home, wherever you are in Australia.

Before your appointment, please ensure that you:

  • have access to a reliable internet connection
  • are in a quiet and private location
  • will not be driving or operating machinery during your consultation
  • have any relevant pathology results, supplements or medications available if requested.

Telehealth offers a convenient and effective way to provide naturopathic care. However, there are occasions where an in-person medical assessment may be more appropriate. If I believe your health concerns require assessment by another healthcare professional, I will discuss this with you and recommend appropriate next steps.

Should technical difficulties interrupt your consultation, I will make every reasonable effort to reconnect or arrange another suitable appointment time.

Booking Appointments

Appointments can be booked through my online booking system. Payment is required at the time of booking to secure your consultation. Appointment availability may vary and cannot be guaranteed.

If you are booking your first consultation, you will be asked to complete a health questionnaire before your appointment. Providing accurate and complete information helps ensure your consultation is as productive and personalised as possible.

Fees & Payment

Consultation fees are displayed at the time of booking and are payable in Australian Dollars (AUD).

Payment is securely processed through my online booking platform. Fees may be reviewed and updated periodically. Any fee changes will apply only to future bookings. Unless otherwise stated, consultation fees do not include the cost of herbal medicines, nutritional supplements, pathology testing or other products that may be recommended during your care.

Herbal Medicines & Nutritional Supplements

As part of your personalised care plan, I may recommend herbal medicines or nutritional supplements where appropriate. Recommendations are made based on your individual health history, current concerns, goals and the information available during your consultation. 

Where products are recommended:

  • You must inform me of any medications, supplements, allergies, pregnancy, breastfeeding or changes in your health to help ensure recommendations are appropriate.
  • Read and follow any directions or instructions that may be given in relation to any products prescribed by me.

Natural medicines can have active effects and may not be suitable for everyone. As with all healthcare interventions, supplements and herbal medicines may carry potential risks, interactions or side effects. If you experience any unexpected symptoms or concerns after commencing a recommendation, please contact me or seek appropriate medical advice.

Functional Testing & Pathology

As part of your personalised care, I may recommend reviewing existing pathology results or, where appropriate, suggest functional testing that may provide additional information about your health.

Any testing recommendations will be discussed with you, including the purpose of the test and how the results may support your care plan.

Please understand that:

  • Testing is optional, and you are welcome to ask questions before deciding whether to proceed.
  • Functional testing and naturopathic interpretation are intended to complement, not replace, assessment and diagnosis from your medical practitioner.
  • If your health concerns require medical investigation, diagnosis or management outside my scope of practice, I may recommend that you consult with your GP or another appropriate healthcare professional.

My aim is to help you better understand your health while ensuring your care remains safe, appropriate and collaborative.

Communication Between Appointments

I understand that questions can sometimes arise after a consultation, particularly when you are beginning new recommendations or making changes to your health routine.

From time to time, I may contact you between appointments where clinically appropriate. This may include:

  • checking how you are progressing with recommendations.
  • clarifying information discussed during your consultation.
  • providing follow-up guidance relating to your care plan.
  • requesting additional information that may assist with your ongoing support.

Between-appointment communication is intended to support continuity of care and does not replace the need for a consultation where further assessment, changes to recommendations or detailed health advice are required. If you have new symptoms, significant health changes or concerns requiring personalised advice, you may be encouraged to book a follow-up consultation.

Please note that email or electronic communication is not monitored continuously and should not be used for urgent health concerns. For urgent medical concerns, please contact your GP, or emergency services.

Cancellation & Rescheduling Policy

At Samantha Atherton Naturopathy, I understand that life does not always go according to plan. Illness, family commitments and unexpected circumstances can happen. My cancellation policy exists to respect both your appointment time and the time set aside to support you.

Rescheduling

If you need to change your appointment, please contact me as soon as possible.

Appointments may be rescheduled without penalty where reasonable notice is provided. Any payment already made will be transferred to your new appointment time.

Cancelling an Appointment

If you need to cancel your appointment, I kindly ask for at least 48 hours’ notice wherever possible.

Where an appointment is cancelled with less than 48 hours’ notice, the consultation fee may be retained. I understand that genuine circumstances arise, and each situation will be considered with understanding and discretion.

Missed Appointments

If you do not attend your scheduled appointment without notice, the consultation fee will generally be forfeited. Where there are repeated missed appointments or repeated late cancellations, future appointment requests may be refused. My intention is not to penalise clients for unexpected circumstances, but to ensure appointment availability is respected for everyone seeking care.

Refunds

I want clients to feel comfortable and confident when choosing to work with me. Consultation fees are refundable or transferable where required under Australian Consumer Law. Outside of these obligations, refunds are considered on a case-by-case basis. Once a consultation has taken place, fees generally cannot be refunded as the appointment time, professional expertise and personalised care have already been provided. Supplement and product purchases may be subject to the individual supplier’s refund and return policies, along with any applicable consumer rights.

If you have concerns about a payment or service, please contact me so we can discuss it.

Complaints & Feedback

I value open communication and welcome feedback about your experience with Samantha Atherton Naturopathy. If you have a concern, question or complaint, I encourage you to contact me directly so we can discuss the matter and work towards a resolution. My aim is to listen respectfully, understand your concerns and respond in a fair and timely manner. If you are not satisfied with the outcome of your concern, you may seek advice from an appropriate external organisation or regulatory body.

Changes to These Terms

These Terms of Service may be updated from time to time to reflect changes to my practice, services, professional obligations or applicable legislation. The most current version will be available on my website. Where appropriate, clients may be notified of significant changes that affect their ongoing care.

Governing Law

These Terms of Service are governed by the laws of South Australia and the Commonwealth of Australia. Any matters arising in relation to these Terms will be subject to the jurisdiction of the courts of South Australia.

Thank You

Thank you for taking the time to read these Terms of Service. I understand that there is a lot of information included here, but I believe it is important that you feel informed, comfortable and confident before beginning care. It is a privilege to be invited into someone’s health journey, and I do not take that responsibility lightly. My intention is to provide a supportive, respectful and collaborative space where you feel heard, valued and empowered to make informed decisions about your health.

I look forward to working together.

Warmly,

Samantha Atherton

BHSc (Naturopathy), GradCert (Advanced Naturopathic Medicine).
Australian Traditional Medicine Society Membership number: 29246