We are required by applicable federal and state laws to maintain the privacy of your protected health information. We must follow the privacy practices described in this notice while it is in effect. We reserve the right to change our privacy practices and update this policy as needed. Any changes will apply to information we already have, as well as new information we receive.

We collect personal health information about you, including:

• Demographic information (name, address, phone number, email, etc.)
• Mental health assessments, diagnoses, and treatment plans
• Medical history relevant to your mental health care
• Session notes and progress reports
• Insurance and billing information
• Information shared during counseling sessions

Your health information may be used and disclosed for:

• Treatment: Providing mental health services and developing appropriate treatment plans
• Payment: Verifying insurance coverage, processing payments, and submitting claims
• Healthcare Operations: Conducting quality assessment, staff training, and administrative activities
• Appointment Reminders and Service-Related Communications
• Legal Requirements and Public Health Activities

We will not use or disclose your information for purposes other than treatment, payment, or healthcare operations without your written authorization, except as required by law.

We maintain physical, electronic, and procedural safeguards that comply with federal regulations to protect your personal health information. These measures include:

• Encrypted electronic medical records systems
• Secure, password-protected databases
• Regular staff training on privacy and security protocols
• Physical security measures in our facilities
• Secure disposal of documents containing sensitive information

Under HIPAA, you have the following rights regarding your health information:

• Right to inspect and obtain copies of your health record
• Right to request amendments to your information if you believe it is incorrect
• Right to receive an accounting of certain disclosures
• Right to request restrictions on information sharing
• Right to request confidential communications
• Right to be notified of any breach of unsecured protected health information
• Right to a paper copy of our Privacy Policy

For clients under 18 years of age, parents or legal guardians generally have the right to access their child's health information. However, in accordance with Colorado state law, minors have certain rights to confidential services, particularly in areas related to mental health. We comply with all applicable laws regarding the privacy rights of minors receiving counseling services.

If you have questions about our privacy practices or believe your privacy rights have been violated, please contact:

Agape Counseling Service
1335 Phay Ave, Suite B
Cañon City, Colorado 81212

Phone: (719) 315-0574

You may also file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office for Civil Rights. You will not be penalized for filing a complaint.