Privacy Policy

Effective Date: 08/07/2025

Shefa Mental Health ("we", "our", or "us") is committed to protecting your privacy and maintaining the confidentiality of your personal and health information. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, and protect your information, including when you visit our website or communicate with us via SMS (text messaging).

1. Information We Collect

We may collect the following types of information:

A. Personal Information

  • Name, email address, phone number

  • Mailing address

  • Emergency contact information

  • Insurance and billing details

B. Health Information (Protected Health Information – PHI)

  • Medical history, mental health records, treatment notes

  • Appointment dates and times

  • Other information you provide during intake or therapy sessions

C. Website and Communication Data

  • IP address, browser type, and browsing activity

  • Communications via contact forms, email, or SMS

  • Information submitted through online scheduling or intake platforms

2. How We Use Your Information

We use your information to:

  • Provide mental health services

  • Schedule appointments and send reminders

  • Communicate with you via phone, email, or SMS

  • Comply with legal, ethical, and professional obligations

  • Improve our services and website experience

3. SMS Communications

If you opt in to receive text messages from us, we may send SMS messages for:

  • Appointment reminders

  • Scheduling updates

  • Service-related notifications

SMS is not a secure or encrypted method of communication. We do not include sensitive health information in text messages.

You may opt out of SMS at any time by replying “STOP” to any message or by contacting us directly.

Our SMS services may be supported by third-party providers such as Zoom. You can review their privacy policy here: Zoom Privacy Policy

4. Sharing of Information

We do not sell or rent your personal or health information to third parties.

We may share your information with:

  • Licensed clinicians and support staff

  • Insurance providers (with your consent)

  • Technology providers (e.g., EHR platforms, Zoom, SMS providers) solely to deliver services

  • Legal or regulatory authorities as required by law

All third-party service providers we work with are required to comply with HIPAA and maintain confidentiality.

5. Your Rights Under HIPAA

You have the right to:

  • Access and receive a copy of your records

  • Request corrections to your records

  • Request restrictions on how we use or share your information

  • Request confidential communications

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

To exercise these rights, contact us at [insert contact email or mailing address].

6. Data Security

We take reasonable steps to protect your information using physical, technical, and administrative safeguards. While we use secure platforms for telehealth and data storage, we cannot guarantee 100% security, especially for unencrypted communication like SMS or standard email.

7. Cookies and Website Tracking

Our website may use cookies or similar technologies to analyze traffic and improve functionality. You may disable cookies through your browser settings.

8. Third-Party Links

Our website may contain links to third-party websites or services. We are not responsible for the privacy practices of these external sites.

9. Changes to This Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. The latest version will always be posted on our website with the effective date listed at the top.

10. Contact Us

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

Shefa Mental Health
Email: sol@shefamentalhealth.com
Phone: 972-348-0958