Privacy Policy

Privacy Policy

Effective Date: April 25, 2020

At Aly Thompson, LMFT, your privacy is of the utmost importance. This Privacy Policy outlines how we collect, use, and protect your personal health information when you engage in our therapy services. We are committed to complying with applicable data protection laws, including the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA). Please review this policy carefully.

1. Our Commitment to Your Privacy

We understand the sensitive nature of your personal health information, and we are dedicated to safeguarding your privacy. This notice applies to all records of care and services provided by our mental health practice. We use your information to provide high-quality therapy services and to comply with legal requirements. By using our services, you consent to this Privacy Policy.

2. How We Use and Disclose Your Health Information

We may use and disclose your personal health information (PHI) for the following purposes:

• Treatment: We may share your health information with other healthcare providers to coordinate your treatment. For example, we may consult with a physician or mental health provider regarding your care.

• Payment: Your information may be used for billing and payment purposes.

• Health Care Operations: Your information may be used for administrative activities such as quality improvement or office management.

• Lawsuits and Disputes: In the event of a lawsuit, we may disclose health information in response to a court order or legal process.

We will only share your information in ways permitted by law, and we take care to ensure that the disclosure is necessary and appropriate.

3. Certain Uses and Disclosures Requiring Your Authorization

Certain disclosures of your health information require your written authorization. This includes the use of psychotherapy notes, which are separate from other medical records. These notes require your explicit consent to be shared, except in cases such as:

• For treatment or defense in legal proceedings.

• As required by law.

We will not disclose your information for marketing purposes, and we will not sell your PHI.

4. Uses and Disclosures Not Requiring Authorization

Under specific circumstances, we may disclose your PHI without your consent:

• As required by federal or state law, such as for public health reporting or law enforcement purposes.

• To prevent serious harm to health or safety.

• For health oversight activities, including investigations or audits.

• For research purposes, with appropriate safeguards in place.

5. Your Rights Regarding Your Health Information

You have several important rights under this policy:

• Request Restrictions: You may ask us to limit the use of your health information.

• Access to Your Information: You have the right to inspect and receive a copy of your health records.

• Amendments: You can request corrections to your health information if it is inaccurate or incomplete.

• Accounting of Disclosures: You can request a list of disclosures of your PHI.

• Confidential Communications: You can request that we communicate with you in a specific way or at a different address.

• Copy of this Notice: You can request a paper or electronic copy of this Privacy Policy.

6. How We Protect Your Health Information

We implement industry-standard security measures to protect your personal health information from unauthorized access, alteration, or disclosure. This includes physical, electronic, and procedural safeguards.

7. Changes to This Privacy Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy periodically. When we make changes, the updated policy will be posted on our website with an updated "Effective Date." We encourage you to review the policy regularly for any updates.

8. Contact Us

If you have any questions or concerns about how your personal health information is handled or about your rights, please contact us at:

Aly Thompson, LMFT