Privacy Policy
Effective Date: January 2026
Our Commitment to Your Privacy
Unapologetically You Counselling is committed to protecting your privacy and confidentiality. We understand that the information you share in therapy is personal and sensitive. We follow our legal and ethical responsibilities under:
Ontario’s Personal Health Information Protection Act (PHIPA)
Applicable federal privacy legislation (PIPEDA, where relevant)
The OCSWSSW Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice
HIPAA-aligned privacy and security safeguards, where applicable
This policy explains how we collect, use, and protect your information when you receive services in person, virtually, or through our website.
What Information We Collect
We may collect:
Personal information, such as your name, contact details, emergency contact, and billing information
Personal health information, including information you choose to share during individual or couples therapy (e.g., mental health history, session content, treatment goals)
Limited website data, such as IP address or browser type, to improve website performance
We collect only the information necessary to provide safe, ethical, and effective services.
How Your Information Is Used
Your information is used to:
Provide individual and couples therapy services
Schedule and manage appointments
Communicate with you about care
Maintain clinical records
Process payments
Meet legal, ethical, and regulatory requirements
We do not use personal health information for marketing purposes.
In-Person and Virtual Services
We offer hybrid services, including in-person and virtual therapy.
For virtual sessions, we use secure, privacy-focused platforms. While reasonable steps are taken to protect your information, electronic communication carries some inherent risk. These risks are reviewed as part of informed consent.
How We Protect Your Information
We use reasonable safeguards to protect your information, including:
Secure electronic record systems
Encrypted communication and platforms
Restricted access to client records
HIPAA-aligned administrative and technical protections
No system is completely risk-free, but we take privacy seriously and respond promptly to any concerns.
When Information May Be Shared
Your information is shared only:
With your informed consent
When required by law or professional duty (e.g., risk of serious harm, child protection concerns, court orders)
With trusted service providers (e.g., payment processors or electronic record systems) who are required to maintain confidentiality
Your Rights
You have the right to:
Access your personal health information
Request corrections
Ask questions about how your information is used
Withdraw consent where legally possible
Requests should be made in writing.
Record Retention
Clinical records are stored securely and retained in accordance with PHIPA and OCSWSSW requirements. Records are destroyed when they are no longer legally required.
Changes to This Policy
This Privacy Policy may be updated from time to time. The most current version will always be available on our website.
Contact Us
If you have questions or concerns about privacy or confidentiality, please contact:
Unapologetically You Counselling
unapologeticallyyoucounselling@gmail.com