Privacy Policy
Privacy Policy
Kasamira Counselling
Effective Date: April 22, 2025
1. Introduction
Kasamira Counselling ("we," "our," or "us") is committed to protecting the privacy and confidentiality of all personal information collected through our website and counselling services. As a registered counselling practice operating in Alberta, Canada, we adhere to the Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA), the Health Information Act (HIA) of Alberta, and, where applicable, the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) for clients residing in the United States.
This Privacy Policy outlines how we collect, use, disclose, and protect your personal information.
2. Information We Collect
We may collect the following types of information when you use our website or counselling services:
Personal Identification Information: Name, email address, phone number, mailing address, and emergency contact details.
Health Information: Mental health history, presenting concerns, session notes, assessments, treatment plans, and other sensitive health information.
Technical Data: IP address, browser type, access times, and device identifiers when visiting our website.
3. How We Use Your Information
Your personal information is used for the following purposes:
To provide counselling and psychotherapy services.
To assess, diagnose, and collaboratively develop treatment plans.
To communicate with you regarding appointments, scheduling, or administrative matters.
To comply with professional regulations and ethical standards.
To maintain continuity and quality of care.
To process payments or insurance claims (if applicable).
4. Consent
By using our services or providing your information, you consent to the collection, use, and disclosure of your personal information as outlined in this policy. You may withdraw your consent at any time, subject to legal or ethical obligations.
5. Disclosure of Information
Your personal information will not be shared with third parties without your express consent, except in the following circumstances:
When required by law or professional duty (e.g., to report child abuse, risk of harm, court orders).
To respond to a medical or psychological emergency.
To coordinate care with other healthcare providers (with your written consent).
To administrative service providers who assist in the operation of our business and are bound by strict confidentiality agreements.
6. Security Measures
Kasamira Counselling employs appropriate administrative, technical, and physical safeguards to protect your personal information. This includes encrypted data storage, secure email communication, password-protected files, and secure client management systems.
Google Workspace Compliance: We have signed a Business Associate Agreement (BAA) with Google Workspace, ensuring our use of Google email and document storage complies with HIPAA security and privacy standards.
7. Data Retention
Client records are retained in accordance with the standards of the College of Alberta Psychologists (CAP), the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA), and applicable privacy legislation. Records are typically retained for a minimum of ten (10) years from the last date of service or, in the case of minors, ten years after they reach the age of majority.
8. Your Rights
As a client, you have the right to:
Access your personal or health records.
Request corrections to inaccurate or incomplete information.
Withdraw consent for the collection, use, or disclosure of information (subject to legal limitations).
File a complaint with the Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner of Alberta or the Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada.
9. Cross-Border Services (HIPAA Compliance)
For clients located in the United States, Kasamira Counselling takes additional precautions to meet the requirements of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). This includes limiting access to Protected Health Information (PHI), ensuring data is encrypted and stored securely, and maintaining breach notification protocols.
10. Third-Party Links
Our website may contain links to external sites. Kasamira Counselling is not responsible for the content or privacy practices of these third-party websites. Please review their policies before providing any personal information.
11. Policy Updates
We may update this Privacy Policy to reflect changes in legal or operational practices. Updates will be posted to our website with a new effective date.
12. Contact Information
If you have any questions, concerns, or would like to access or correct your personal information, please contact:
Kasamira Counselling
admin@kasamiracounselling.com
www.kasamiracounselling.com