Effective Date: July 4, 2025
At Wise Counsel Therapy and Consulting, LLC, we respect your privacy and are committed to protecting your personal and health information. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard your information when you visit our website https://www.wisecounselohio.com. It also outlines how we comply with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).
By using this website, you agree to the terms of this policy.
1. Information We Collect
We may collect two types of information:
a. Personal Information
When you complete a contact form, request services, or communicate with us through the website, we may collect:
- Your name
- Email address
- Phone number
- Any information you voluntarily share
b. Protected Health Information (PHI)
If you share health-related information through the website or via platforms linked to our site (such as appointment scheduling or secure messaging portals), this data may be considered PHI under HIPAA. We handle all such data in accordance with HIPAA regulations.
c. Website Usage Data
We use tools such as Google Analytics to collect non-identifiable data like browser type, device type, IP address, pages visited, and time spent on the site to improve functionality and user experience.
d. Cookies
We use cookies to understand site usage and support basic functionality. You may disable cookies in your browser settings, though this may impact your user experience.
2. HIPAA Compliance
Wise Counsel Therapy and Consulting, LLC is a HIPAA-covered entity. We are legally required to maintain the privacy and security of your Protected Health Information (PHI). We comply with HIPAA’s rules regarding the use and disclosure of your PHI and take reasonable precautions to protect it.
HIPAA-related safeguards include:
- Use of encrypted platforms for scheduling, documentation, and communication (e.g., SimplePractice)
- Secure storage of client records
- Staff training on privacy and confidentiality
- Limiting access to PHI on a need-to-know basis
You may request a copy of our HIPAA Notice of Privacy Practices at any time.
3. How We Use Your Information
We use the information we collect to:
- Respond to inquiries or requests
- Schedule and provide mental health services
- Comply with legal and ethical obligations
- Improve our website and services
We do not use your personal or health information for marketing purposes without your explicit written consent.
4. How We Share Your Information
We do not sell or rent your personal information.
We may share information only in these circumstances:
- With secure third-party platforms we use for scheduling, billing, documentation, and communication (e.g., SimplePractice)
- When required by law or to comply with legal processes
- To protect the rights, safety, or property of Wise Counsel Therapy and Consulting, LLC, our clients, or others
5. Third-Party Links
Our website may link to third-party platforms (such as client portals or telehealth services). These services operate under their own privacy and security policies. We encourage you to review their privacy notices before sharing any information.
6. Your Rights Under HIPAA
As a client, you have specific rights regarding your PHI under HIPAA, including:
- The right to access and obtain a copy of your records
- The right to request amendments to your records
- The right to request restrictions on certain uses or disclosures
- The right to receive a list of disclosures we have made
- The right to receive communications by alternative means or locations
- The right to file a complaint without fear of retaliation
To exercise these rights, please contact us using the information below.
7. Security
We use administrative, technical, and physical safeguards to protect your information. While no method of transmission is completely secure, we strive to use industry best practices and HIPAA-compliant technologies.
8. Children’s Privacy
Our services are intended for individuals aged 13 and older. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children without parental consent.
9. Changes to This Privacy Policy
We may update this Privacy Policy periodically. Any changes will be posted on this page with the effective date updated. We encourage you to review this policy regularly.
10. Contact Us
If you have any questions about this Privacy Policy, your rights under HIPAA, or how your information is handled, please contact:
Wise Counsel Therapy and Consulting, LLC
26220 Center Ridge Road, Westlake, OH 44145
Email: kerri@wisecounselohio.com
Phone: 440-782-1872
You may also file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, Office for Civil Rights if you believe your privacy rights have been violated.