Effective Date: 16-Feb-2025
Introduction
Welcome to South Shore Counseling, a therapy and counseling practice specializing in services for children, teens, and adults, addressing issues such as depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, sexuality, and more. We are committed to protecting your privacy. This Privacy Policy details how we collect, use, share, and protect your personal information.
1. Information We Collect
1.1 Personal Information: We collect personal details including your full name, date of birth, contact information, medical and mental health history, insurance details, and any information shared during therapy sessions.
1.2 Non-Personal Information: We collect data through cookies and similar technologies such as IP address, browser type, operating system, and browsing patterns to improve our website.
1.3 Sensitive Information: We may collect sensitive data related to your mental health, sexuality, gender identity, and other protected categories as part of our therapeutic services.
2. How We Use Your Information
2.1 To provide personalized therapy and counseling services. 2.2 To schedule and manage appointments. 2.3 To communicate about services, billing, and updates. 2.4 To maintain clinical records as required by law. 2.5 To enhance our services through research and quality improvement (anonymized data only). 2.6 To comply with legal obligations, such as court orders or mandatory reporting.
3. Information Sharing and Disclosure
We maintain strict confidentiality in accordance with HIPAA and other relevant laws. Your information may be shared:
- With your written consent.
- With other healthcare providers involved in your care.
- For billing and insurance purposes.
- When required by law, such as cases of abuse reporting, risk of harm, or legal subpoenas.
4. Data Security
We use encryption, secure servers, and access controls to safeguard your data. While we take strong measures to protect your information, no system is completely safe, and we encourage clients to also take precautions.
5. Your Rights
5.1 Access and Correction: You can request access to your records and correct any inaccuracies. 5.2 Confidential Communications: You can request alternative communication methods (e.g., phone, email). 5.3 Restrictions: You may request restrictions on how your data is used. 5.4 Complaints: You have the right to file a complaint if you believe your privacy rights have been violated.
6. Third-Party Links
Our website may include links to third-party sites. We are not responsible for their privacy practices. Please review their policies independently.
7. Changes to This Policy
We may update this Privacy Policy. Changes will be posted here with the revised “Effective Date.” Continued use of our services constitutes acceptance of these changes.
8. Contact Us
For any privacy-related inquiries, contact us