Privacy POLICY

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Privacy Policy for SMS Communications

HIPAA-Compliant Text Messaging for Therapy and Mental Health Services in Arizona

At The Healing Effect, your privacy and trust are our top priorities. We never sell, share, or disclose personal information to any third party for marketing or promotional purposes. We are committed to maintaining HIPAA-compliant communication with all clients.

This SMS Privacy Policy explains how we use text messaging (SMS) to communicate with clients receiving therapy and counseling services through The Healing Effect, whether via telehealth or in-person sessions at our Arizona locations.

By opting in to SMS communication, you may receive:

• Responses to questions or check-ins from your therapist or administrative staff
• Appointment reminders, confirmations, and scheduling changes
• Notifications about billing or insurance-related matters
• General updates related to your care or account
   

Message frequency varies based on your needs and communication preferences.

You can opt out of SMS messages at any time by texting STOP.

Once you send STOP, you will receive a confirmation message and will no longer receive text communications from us. To rejoin, simply opt in again by updating your preferences or texting us directly.

If you are experiencing issues with text messaging from The Healing Effect, reply with HELP or contact our office at 602-698-5777. We are here to assist.

• Message and data rates may apply based on your wireless plan
• Message delivery is not guaranteed by mobile carriers
• Frequency of messages will depend on your level of engagement and opt-in preferences
   

We take confidentiality seriously. All SMS communications are handled in accordance with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).

• No sensitive information, such as diagnoses, session content, or clinical notes, will be sent via text
• Messages are limited to non-clinical communications such as scheduling and billing
• Only authorized staff will access or respond to client messages
• Clients are encouraged to use our secure client portal for all clinical questions or sensitive topics
   

SMS is not intended for therapy, emergency support, or crisis communication. If you are experiencing a mental health emergency, call 911 or visit your nearest crisis center.

This Privacy Policy may be updated as laws, technology, or business practices evolve. Updates will be posted on our website and will be effective immediately upon posting.

If you have questions about this policy or your communication preferences, please contact our office at 602-698-5777 or email us through our secure contact form.