Privacy Policy

At Becoming Counseling Services, PLLC, we are committed to protecting your privacy and maintaining the confidentiality of your personal and health information. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, and safeguard your information in accordance with applicable laws, including the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).

1. Information We Collect

We may collect the following types of information:

Personal Information

Name, date of birth, address, phone number, email

Emergency contact information

Health Information (Protected Health Information – PHI)

Medical and mental health history

Treatment notes and assessments

Insurance and billing information

Website & Communication Data

Information submitted through contact forms

IP address and basic website usage data (via cookies or analytics tools)

2. How We Use Your Information

We use your information to:

Provide mental health evaluation, treatment, and care coordination

Communicate with you regarding appointments, services, or updates

Process billing and insurance claims

Comply with legal and regulatory requirements

We only use or disclose your Protected Health Information as permitted by HIPAA or with your written authorization.

3. How We Protect Your Information

We implement appropriate administrative, technical, and physical safeguards to protect your information, including:

Secure electronic health record systems

Encrypted communication platforms (when applicable)

Access controls limiting information to authorized personnel only

4. Confidentiality and Limits

Your information is kept confidential except in the following situations:

When required by law (e.g., suspected abuse, neglect, or court orders)

If there is a risk of serious harm to yourself or others

For treatment, payment, and healthcare operations as allowed under HIPAA

5. Communication Policies

While we take steps to protect your information, please be aware:

Email and text messaging may not be fully secure unless otherwise specified

By communicating via these methods, you acknowledge and accept potential risks

We encourage discussing sensitive information through secure or clinical platforms whenever possible.

6. Your Rights Under HIPAA

You have the right to:

Access and request copies of your records

Request corrections to your information

Request restrictions on certain uses or disclosures

Receive an accounting of disclosures

File a complaint if you believe your privacy rights have been violated

7. Third-Party Services

We may use third-party services (e.g., telehealth platforms, billing systems) that are HIPAA-compliant and have Business Associate Agreements (BAAs) in place to protect your information.

8. Cookies and Website Tracking

Our website may use cookies or analytics tools to improve user experience. These tools do not collect personal health information.

9. Children’s Privacy

We comply with all applicable laws regarding minors’ privacy and require appropriate consent for treatment and data collection.

10. Changes to This Policy

We reserve the right to update this Privacy Policy at any time. Updates will be posted on this page with a revised effective date.

11. Contact Information

If you have questions about this Privacy Policy or your privacy rights, please contact:

Becoming Counseling Services, PLLC
231 Westlake Road suite 202 Fayetteville, NC 28314
910-644-0307
[email protected].