Private Policy
1. Purpose
This explains how your personal health information will be handled and protected during the course of our therapeutic relationship should we work together. It outlines your rights regarding privacy and the conditions under which your information may be disclosed.
2. Confidentiality of Therapy Sessions
All information disclosed during therapy sessions is confidential. This includes:
Personal and family history
Information about mental and physical health
Details shared about relationships, experiences, and goals
Your privacy is protected under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). The information you share will not be disclosed to third parties without your written consent, except under specific circumstances outlined below.
3. Limits of Confidentiality
While confidentiality is a key component of the therapeutic relationship, there are certain situations where your information may be disclosed without your consent, as required by law:
Risk of Harm: If you disclose intentions to harm yourself or others, the therapist may be required to take protective actions.
Suspected Abuse: If there is suspicion of abuse or neglect of a child, elderly person, or vulnerable adult, the therapist must report it to the appropriate authorities.
Legal Requirements: If required by a court order, subpoena, or other legal process, your records may be disclosed.
4. Use of Information for Administrative Purposes
Your information may be used for:
Treatment planning and case management
Billing and payment processing
Internal practice audits and quality assurance
These activities are conducted in compliance with HIPAA to ensure the protection of your privacy.
5. Electronic Communications
While efforts are made to protect your information during electronic communication (e.g., email, text, telehealth), please be aware that these channels may not be fully secure. As such, you acknowledge the risks and consent to electronic communication if necessary.
6. Your Rights
As a client, you have the right to:
-Request access to your records.
-Request corrections to inaccurate information.
-Request restrictions on certain uses or disclosures.
-Withdraw your consent at any time in writing, except where action has already been taken based on prior consent.