Effective Date: [Insert Date]
Hi there, and welcome to my website. I take your privacy seriously – not just because it’s required by law, but because it’s the right thing to do. This privacy policy is here to let you know what kind of information I collect, how I use it, and how I keep it safe.
1. Who I Am
I’m a licensed therapist based in New York, offering support for people navigating life’s challenges. Whether you’re just browsing or thinking about reaching out, your privacy matters to me. My website is a space to learn more about my services—not a place where your personal information will be misused or over-shared.
2. What This Policy Covers
This policy applies to information collected through my website, including contact forms, emails, and any other way you might interact with me online. Once we start working together as therapist and client, your information becomes protected by a federal law called HIPAA (more on that below).
3. What Information I Collect (and What I Don’t)
If you fill out a contact form or send me an email, I may collect:
- Your name
- Your email address
- Your phone number (if you provide it)
- Whatever you choose to share in your message
That’s it. I don’t use tracking cookies to follow you around the internet. I don’t collect sensitive health information through this site. I don’t sell your data. Ever.
My site may use basic analytics tools (like Google Analytics) to understand things like which pages are most visited or how people found me. This info helps me improve the site, but it’s anonymous and doesn’t identify you.
4. If You Become a Client: HIPAA & Confidentiality
Once you become a client, everything changes—in a good way. Your information is protected under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), which sets strict standards for how your personal health information (PHI) is stored, shared, and protected.
Here’s what that means for you:
- I will never share your personal or health information without your written permission, unless legally required (e.g., risk of harm or a court order).
- I use HIPAA-compliant systems for recordkeeping and communication when needed.
- Your therapy records, session notes, and anything you share with me are treated with the utmost care and confidentiality.
5. How I Use the Information You Share
I use the information you provide to:
- Respond to your inquiries
- Schedule appointments
- Keep in touch, if you request it
That’s it. No newsletters. No third-party marketing.
6. Your Rights
You have rights when it comes to your information. You can:
- Ask what personal data I have about you
- Request a correction
- Ask me to delete your data (where legally possible)
- Withdraw consent to be contacted at any time
Just send me an email or give me a call. I’m happy to talk it through.
7. Security
While no system is perfect, I take reasonable steps to protect your information online and offline. This includes using secure platforms, encrypted storage, and password protection.
If you ever feel something isn’t right or have concerns about your privacy, please reach out. I want you to feel safe.
8. Updates to This Policy
From time to time, I may update this privacy policy to reflect changes in the law or my practices. When I do, I’ll update the “effective date” at the top of this page.
9. Contact Info
Have questions? I’m here to help.
[Your Full Name, LCSW / LMHC / etc.]
Email: [your email]
Phone: [your number]
Office: [your address]