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Privacy Policy

Introduction:
Your privacy is important to me. This policy explains what information I collect, how I use it, and how I protect it. If you have questions, please contact me at [hello@emberthomas.com].


1. Information I Collect
What I Collect:
Through My Website:

  • Name, email address, and phone number (when you submit a contact form)

  • Service preferences and the message you send

  • Technical information: IP address, browser type, pages visited (via cookies and analytics)

During Our Sessions:

  • Information you share during therapy or coaching sessions

  • Session notes, treatment plans, and progress records

  • Payment and billing information

I only collect information that's necessary to provide you with quality care and improve your experience.


2. How I Use Your Information
I use your information to:

  • Respond to your inquiries and schedule appointments

  • Provide therapy and coaching services

  • Process payments and manage billing

  • Send appointment reminders and follow-up communications

  • Improve my website and services through analytics

  • Comply with legal and ethical obligations

I will never sell, rent, or share your personal information with third parties for marketing purposes.


3. Confidentiality & HIPAA Compliance
Your therapy and coaching records are confidential and protected by law.
As a licensed mental health professional, I comply with HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) and state confidentiality laws. This means:

  • Everything you share in sessions is confidential

  • Your records are stored securely and only accessible to authorized personnel

  • I will not disclose your information without your written consent

Exceptions to confidentiality (as required by law):

  • If there is an immediate risk of harm to yourself or others

  • Suspected abuse or neglect of a child, elderly person, or dependent adult

  • If required by a valid court order

4. How I Protect Your Information
I take data security seriously:

  • All contact forms use SSL encryption (secure connections)

  • Client records are stored on HIPAA-compliant, password-protected systems

  • I use secure, encrypted communication for sensitive information

  • Access to your information is limited to only those who need it for treatment

  • Regular security audits and updates

5. Cookies & Website Analytics
This website uses cookies to improve your experience:

  • Essential cookies: Required for the website to function (contact forms, security)

  • Analytics cookies: Help me understand how visitors use the site (via Google Analytics or similar)

You can control cookies through your browser settings. Disabling cookies may affect some website features.
I do not use cookies to track you across other websites or sell your data.


6. Third-Party Services
I may use third-party services that have access to limited information:

  • Website hosting: [Wix, Squarespace, etc.]

  • Email service: [Gmail, G Suite, etc.]

  • Payment processing: [Stripe, Square, etc.]

  • Scheduling software: [Calendly, Acuity, etc.]

  • Analytics: [Google Analytics]

All third-party providers are carefully selected and required to maintain confidentiality and security.


7. Your Rights
You have the right to:

  • Access your personal information and client records (request a copy)

  • Request corrections to inaccurate information

  • Request deletion of your information (subject to legal retention requirements)

  • Opt out of non-essential communications

  • Withdraw consent for certain uses of your information

To exercise these rights, contact me at [hello@emberthomas.com].


8. Children's Privacy
This website is not intended for children under 13. I do not knowingly collect information from children without parental consent. If you believe a child has provided information without consent, please contact me immediately.


9. Changes to This Policy
I may update this privacy policy periodically to reflect changes in my practices or legal requirements. The "Last Updated" date at the top of this page will be revised accordingly. Continued use of my services constitutes acceptance of the updated policy.


10. Contact Me
If you have questions or concerns about this privacy policy or how your information is handled:
Ember Thomas, LCSW
Email: [hello@emberthomas.com]
Phone: [(555) 123-4567]
Address: [123 Wellness Lane, Suite 200, City, State ZIP]

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