Privacy Policy & HIPAA Notice
Your privacy and the confidentiality of your health information are our highest priorities.
Last updated: September 19, 2026
Important Notice: Talknet Counseling is a covered entity under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). This document serves as both our website Privacy Policy and our HIPAA Notice of Privacy Practices. By using our services or website, you acknowledge that you have read and understood this policy. This policy applies to services provided in Florida, Virginia, and North Carolina.
HIPAA Notice of Privacy Practices
Your Rights Under HIPAA
As a healthcare provider, Talknet Counseling is required by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) to maintain the privacy of your protected health information (PHI) and to provide you with this Notice of Privacy Practices. We are required to abide by the terms of this Notice currently in effect.
How We Use and Disclose Your Health Information
We may use and disclose your PHI for treatment purposes — such as sharing information with other healthcare providers involved in your care. We may use your PHI for payment purposes, including billing your insurance company. We may use your PHI for healthcare operations, such as quality assessment and improvement activities. We will obtain your written authorisation before using or disclosing your PHI for any other purpose not described in this Notice.
Your HIPAA Rights
You have the right to: (1) request restrictions on how we use or disclose your PHI; (2) receive confidential communications of your PHI; (3) inspect and copy your PHI; (4) request an amendment to your PHI; (5) receive an accounting of disclosures of your PHI; and (6) receive a paper copy of this Notice upon request.
Telehealth-Specific Privacy
Talknet Counseling provides services via secure telehealth platforms. All video sessions are conducted through HIPAA-compliant platforms. We do not record sessions without your explicit written consent. You are responsible for ensuring your own environment is private during sessions.
Information We Collect
Personal Information
We collect information you provide directly to us, including your name, email address, phone number, state of residence, and any messages you send through our contact form. This information is used solely to respond to your enquiries and provide counselling services.
Health Information
As a mental health practice, we collect protected health information necessary to provide counselling services. This includes intake forms, session notes, treatment plans, and billing information. All health information is handled in accordance with HIPAA regulations.
Website Usage Data
Our website may collect non-personally identifiable information such as browser type, pages visited, and time spent on pages. This data is used to improve our website and services and is not linked to your personal or health information.
Data Security
How We Protect Your Information
We implement appropriate technical and organisational measures to protect your personal and health information against unauthorised access, alteration, disclosure, or destruction. Our telehealth platform uses end-to-end encryption and meets all HIPAA security requirements.
Data Retention
We retain your health records in accordance with applicable state and federal laws. Generally, adult mental health records are retained for a minimum of seven (7) years from the date of last service. Records for minors are retained until the minor reaches the age of majority plus seven years.
Third-Party Service Providers
We may share your information with trusted third-party service providers who assist us in operating our practice, such as our electronic health record system and billing services. All such providers are required to sign Business Associate Agreements (BAAs) and comply with HIPAA requirements.
Your Choices & Rights
Access and Correction
You have the right to access, update, or request deletion of your personal information. To exercise these rights, please contact us using the information below. We will respond to your request within 30 days.
Communications
If you contact us through our website form, we will use your contact information only to respond to your enquiry. We do not send marketing emails without your explicit consent.
Complaints
If you believe your privacy rights have been violated, you may file a complaint with us or with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office for Civil Rights. We will not retaliate against you for filing a complaint.
Changes to This Policy
We reserve the right to modify this Privacy Policy at any time. Changes will be posted on this page with an updated effective date. Your continued use of our services after any changes constitutes your acceptance of the new policy.
Privacy Questions or Concerns?
If you have any questions about this Privacy Policy or our HIPAA practices, please contact us directly.