Privacy Policy

Authentic Self ("Authentic Self," "we," "our," or "us") is committed to protecting your privacy and the confidentiality of your personal and health information. This Privacy Policy applies to anyone who visits, accesses, or uses our website, client portal, mobile applications, blogs, or any other digital platforms now or created in the future (collectively referred to as the "Site").

We comply with all applicable federal and state privacy laws, including the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA) and all relevant Michigan state laws governing the protection of personal and health information.

Information We Collect

We collect personally identifiable information only when you voluntarily provide it through:

• Our website
• Secure client portal
• Email communication
• Phone calls or voicemail
• Intake and consent forms
• Appointment scheduling
• Other direct interactions with our practice

Our website servers may also automatically collect limited non-identifying information such as IP address, browser type, device type, and general geographic location for security, analytics, and performance purposes. This information is not linked to personally identifiable data unless required for security or legal purposes.

Types of Information We May Collect

We may collect and securely store the following types of information:

• Full name
• Email address
• Phone number
• Mailing address
• Emergency contact information
• Payment and billing information
• Insurance information (if applicable)
• Demographic or general location data
• Protected health information required for treatment, payment, or healthcare operations under HIPAA
• Any other information you voluntarily provide

Purpose of Information Collection

We collect personal and health information for the purpose of:

• Providing counseling and therapeutic services
• Scheduling and managing appointments
• Communicating with you regarding services, policies, and administrative matters
• Maintaining clinical and administrative records
• Processing payments and insurance claims
• Improving client experience and services
• Complying with ethical, professional, and legal obligations

Consent to Collection & Use

By submitting information through our Site or communicating with Authentic Self PLLC, you consent to the collection and use of your information as described in this policy. You may revoke consent at any time, subject to legal and professional requirements for record retention.

Recordkeeping & Retention

Client records are retained in accordance with HIPAA and Michigan state law. Adult records are typically retained for a minimum of seven (7) years, and records for minors may be retained longer as required by law. All records are securely stored using HIPAA-compliant systems.

Security of Your Information

We use appropriate administrative, technical, and physical safeguards to protect your information from unauthorized access, disclosure, alteration, or misuse. This includes compliance with:

• HIPAA Security Rule
• Michigan Identity Theft Protection Act
• Industry-standard data protection practices

Disclosure of Information

Authentic Self does not sell, rent, or trade your personal information. Information may be disclosed only under the following circumstances:

• With your written authorization
• As required by law (court orders, subpoenas, mandatory reporting)
• To emergency personnel to protect your safety or the safety of others
• To trusted third-party service providers (such as billing platforms or secure client portals) who are contractually bound by confidentiality and HIPAA compliance

Legal Disclosure

We may disclose personal information when required by law or when we believe in good faith that such disclosure is necessary to:

• Comply with legal obligations
• Protect the rights, safety, or wellbeing of clients or others
• Respond to legal claims or investigations

Your Rights Under HIPAA

You have the right to:

• Access your health records
• Request amendments to your records
• Receive an accounting of disclosures

All requests must be submitted in writing and may be subject to a reasonable administrative fee as permitted by law.

Third-Party Links

Our Site may contain links to third-party websites. Authentic Self PLLC is not responsible for the privacy practices or content of external sites. We encourage you to review their privacy policies before submitting personal information.

User-Generated Content

Any content you choose to share publicly (including testimonials, reviews, or social media interactions) becomes public information. Please use discretion when sharing personal or health-related information in public forums.

Children's Privacy

Our services and website are not directed to children under the age of 13. We do not knowingly collect information from children without verified parental consent. If such information is identified, it will be promptly deleted.

Cookies & Website Analytics

Our Site may use cookies and similar technologies to improve website performance, enhance user experience, and analyze site usage. You may control or disable cookies through your browser settings.

SMS Consent

SMS consent is not shared with third parties or affiliates for marketing purposes. Text messaging is used solely for practice-related communication such as appointment reminders and administrative notices.

Changes to This Policy

Authentic Self reserves the right to update this Privacy Policy at any time. Updates will be posted on this page with the revised effective date. Continued use of the Site constitutes acceptance of the updated policy.