Privacy Policy

Privacy Policy

Effective Date: October 15, 2024

Introduction
At Suzannenoel.ca, your privacy and confidentiality are of the utmost importance. This Privacy Policy outlines how we collect, use, and protect your personal information in compliance with applicable privacy laws, including the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and other relevant regulations.

1. Information We Collect
   In the course of providing counseling services, we may collect the following types of personal information:

• Personal Identification Information: Name, date of birth, gender, contact information (phone number, email, address).
• Health and Counseling Information: Mental health history, medical history, treatment plans, session notes, and any information shared during counseling sessions.
• Financial Information: Payment details including billing information for services rendered.
• Technical Information: Information collected automatically when you visit our website, such as IP address, browser type, and access times.

2. How We Use Your Information
   We use the personal information we collect for the following purposes:

• To provide counseling services in accordance with your treatment plan.
• To communicate with you regarding appointments, follow-up, or therapy-related information.
• To process payments and manage billing.
• To comply with legal requirements and professional ethical obligations.
• To improve our services based on feedback and engagement data.

3. Confidentiality
   Your information is confidential. We will not disclose any personal information without your written consent, except in the following circumstances:

• Legal Requirements: We may disclose information as required by law, such as when there is a threat of harm to self or others, cases of suspected child or elder abuse, or in response to a court order.
• Emergency Situations: In case of a medical emergency, your information may be shared with healthcare professionals as necessary.
• Professional Consultation: With your consent, we may discuss your case anonymously with professional peers for supervision or consultation purposes.

4. Data Storage and Security
   We implement appropriate security measures to protect your personal information from unauthorized access, disclosure, or alteration. These include:

• Encrypted storage of electronic records.
• Password protection for access to client files.
• Physical security measures for paper records.

We retain your records in compliance with legal and professional obligations, typically for a minimum of 7 years after your last session or as required by law.

5. Your Rights
   You have the following rights regarding your personal information:

• Access: You may request access to your records and any personal information we hold about you.
• Correction: If any information is inaccurate or incomplete, you have the right to request corrections.
• Revocation of Consent: You may withdraw consent to use your information at any time, although this may limit our ability to provide services.

6. Use of Cookies and Tracking Technologies
   Our website may use cookies or similar technologies to enhance your user experience. You can control cookie preferences through your browser settings.
7. Third-Party Services
   We do not share your personal information with third-party services without your explicit consent, except where necessary for administrative purposes (e.g., billing services or electronic health record providers).
8. Changes to This Privacy Policy
   We reserve the right to update this Privacy Policy from time to time. Any changes will be communicated to you via email or through our website. Your continued use of our services after such modifications constitutes acceptance of the updated policy.
9. Contact Us
   If you have any questions or concerns about this Privacy Policy or how your personal information is handled, please contact us at:

Suzanne Noel

Kelowna, BC

Ph: (778)-581-8934

[email protected]