Privacy Policy & Notice of Privacy Practices (HIPAA)
Effective Date: January 2, 2026
This Privacy Policy and Notice of Privacy Practices describes how personal, medical, and mental health information may be used and disclosed, how that information is protected, and how you can access your information. This document also includes information about your right to receive a Good Faith Estimate under federal law.
1. Commitment to Privacy and Confidentiality
Restored Vessel Counseling is committed to protecting the privacy and confidentiality of personal information and Protected Health Information (PHI). All applicable federal and state laws governing privacy and confidentiality are followed, including the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and Texas state regulations.
2. Information Collected
The following types of information may be collected:
a. Personal Information
Name
Contact information (email, phone number, address)
Date of birth
Emergency contact information
Insurance information, if applicable or if requested by the client for out-of-network reimbursement purposes
b. Protected Health Information (PHI)
Information shared during counseling sessions
Intake forms, assessments, diagnoses, treatment plans, and progress notes
Billing and payment-related information
c. Website and Electronic Information
Appointment requests and contact form submissions
Limited technical data such as IP address, browser type, or usage data
Only the minimum necessary information is collected to provide services and operate the practice.
3. Uses and Disclosures of Protected Health Information
Protected Health Information may be used or disclosed without written authorization for the following purposes, as permitted by law:
Treatment
To provide, coordinate, or manage mental health treatment and related services, including consultation, supervision, and referrals as permitted by law.
Payment
For billing, secure payment processing, and the collection of fees for private-pay services.
Health Care Operations
For practice operations such as supervision, training, quality assurance, compliance, licensing, and administrative activities.
4. Other Permitted or Required Disclosures
Protected health information may be disclosed without authorization in the following circumstances:
Risk of serious harm: When disclosure is necessary to prevent a serious threat to your health or safety or the safety of others
Abuse or neglect: Suspected abuse or neglect of a child, elderly person, or dependent adult, as required by law
Legal requirements: Court orders, subpoenas, or other lawful processes
Public health activities: When required by public health authorities
Law enforcement: As required or permitted by law
Only the minimum necessary information will be disclosed when required.
5. Uses and Disclosures Requiring Written Authorization
Any use or disclosure of Protected Health Information not described in this Notice requires written authorization from the client. Authorization may be revoked in writing at any time, except to the extent that action has already been taken in reliance on the authorization.
6. Client Rights Under HIPAA
Clients have the right to:
Access and obtain a copy of health records
Request amendments to health records
Request an accounting of certain disclosures
Request restrictions on uses or disclosures (approval not guaranteed)
Request confidential communications
Receive a paper or electronic copy of this Notice
File a complaint if privacy rights are believed to have been violated
Requests must be submitted in writing.
7. Duties of the Practice
Restored Vessel Counseling is required by law to:
Maintain the privacy and security of protected health information
Provide this Privacy Policy and Notice of Privacy Practices
Follow the terms of this Notice currently in effect
Notify clients following a breach of unsecured protected health information, as required by law
8. Telehealth and Electronic Communication
Therapy services may be provided via telehealth platforms. HIPAA-compliant systems are used whenever possible. Clients are informed that electronic communication carries inherent risks. Email, text messaging, and website contact forms are not appropriate for emergencies or highly sensitive information.
9. Website Cookies and Third-Party Services
The practice website may use cookies or basic analytics to improve functionality. Third-party services such as scheduling, billing, electronic health record, or telehealth platforms are required to maintain appropriate privacy and security standards. Restored Vessel Counseling is not responsible for the privacy practices of external websites.
10. Good Faith Estimate (No Surprises Act)
Under the No Surprises Act, clients who are uninsured or self-pay have the right to receive a Good Faith Estimate of expected charges for counseling services.
A Good Faith Estimate:
Describes expected costs for scheduled services
Is provided prior to services being rendered or upon request
Is not a contract and actual charges may differ based on services provided
If actual charges are substantially higher than the Good Faith Estimate (generally $400 or more), clients may have the right to dispute the charges. Additional information is available upon request or at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
11. Changes to This Notice
Restored Vessel Counseling reserves the right to change this Privacy Policy and Notice at any time. Changes apply to all protected health information maintained. Updated versions will be posted on the practice website and made available upon request.
12. Contact Information and Complaints
Privacy Officer: Courtney Schmidt, LPC-Associate
Practice: Restored Vessel Counseling
Email: courtney@restoredvesselcounseling.org
Phone: (210) 802-9852
Clients may also file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Filing a complaint will not affect access to care.
This document serves as the Privacy Policy and HIPAA Notice of Privacy Practices for Restored Vessel Counseling.