Notice of Privacy Practices

THIS NOTICE DESCRIBES HOW YOUR PERSONAL INFORMATION MAY BE USED AND DISCLOSED AND HOW YOU CAN GET ACCESS TO THIS INFORMATION.

PLEASE REVIEW THIS NOTICE CAREFULLY.

Your records contain personal information about you and your health. This includes information that identifies you and relates to your past, present, or future physical or mental health and related services. This notice outlines how your information may be used, your rights regarding this information, and my responsibilities to protect your privacy.

I am committed to maintaining the privacy of your personal information and ensuring that it is used appropriately. I will not disclose your personal information without your written consent, except as required or permitted by law.

LIMITS ON CONFIDENTIALITY

The law protects the privacy of communication between a client and a therapist. In most situations, I can only release information about your treatment if you provide written authorization. However, there are some circumstances where I am permitted or required to disclose information without your consent, including but not limited to:

  • If required by law – I may be required to disclose information in response to a court order, subpoena, or government investigation.

  • If there is a risk of harm – If I believe there is a clear and immediate risk of harm to yourself or others, I may take necessary steps, including notifying emergency contacts or authorities.

  • Reporting abuse or neglect – If I suspect abuse or neglect of a child, elderly person, or vulnerable adult, I am legally obligated to report it.

HOW YOUR INFORMATION MAY BE USED AND DISCLOSED

  • For Treatment – I may use your information to provide, coordinate, or manage your treatment. This may include consulting with other professionals involved in your care with your authorization.

  • For Payment – Your personal and billing information is securely stored in my electronic health records system, and services are billed through Stripe. I may use and disclose necessary information to receive payment for the services provided to you.

  • For Business Operations – I may use or disclose your information to conduct administrative activities, including quality assessment, licensing, and practice management.

  • As Required by Law – I must disclose certain information when required by legal or regulatory authorities.

COMMUNICATION AND RECORD KEEPING

  • Secure Messaging – All client communication must occur through secure messaging in my electronic health records system to protect your privacy.

  • Phone Calls – If necessary, I may contact you via phone for appointment reminders or urgent matters.

  • Record Retention – I maintain client records for seven (7) years, after which they are securely disposed of.

  • Billing and Payment – Credit card information is securely stored in my electronic health record system, and payments are processed through Stripe.

CLIENT RIGHTS

You have the following rights regarding your personal information:

  • Right to Access – You may request a copy of your records. A reasonable fee may apply for copies.

COMPLAINTS

If you believe your privacy rights have been violated, you may submit a written complaint to me at: April Mendyka, MA, LPC
Email: April@ChooseToTransform.com
Phone: (586) 381-7835

Download a copy here.