Privacy Policy

Introduction

Caroline Mark, MSW, LSWAIC ("I," "my," or "me") is committed to protecting your privacy and maintaining the confidentiality of your personal information. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard your information when you visit our website or use our services.

Information I Collect

How I Use Your Information

I use the information we collect to:

• Respond to your inquiries and schedule consultations
• Provide therapy services and maintain treatment records
• Communicate about appointments, billing, and treatment
• Improve our website and services
• Comply with legal and professional obligations
• Ensure the security and integrity of my systems

HIPAA and Confidentiality

As an Associate Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I am bound by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) as well as state laws and professional ethical standards. All therapeutic communications and records are kept strictly confidential, except as required by law or with your explicit written consent.

Information Sharing and Disclosure

I do not sell, trade, or rent your personal information to third parties. I may disclose your information only in the following circumstances:

• With your explicit written consent, which you may revoke at any time
• To comply with legal obligations or court orders
• As a mandatory reporter of abuse or neglect of a child or vulenerable adult
• To act reasonably and responsibly if you disclose suicidality or intent to harm others
• For out-of-network insurance billing and insurance purposes (if applicable)
• To trusted service providers who assist in website operations (under strict confidentiality agreements)

Data Security

I implement appropriate technical and organizational security measures to protect your personal information against unauthorized access, alteration, disclosure, or destruction. This includes:

• Encrypted data transmission (SSL/TLS)
• Secure data storage with access controls
• Regular security assessments and updates
• Staff training on privacy and security protocols

Data Retention

I retain your personal information only as long as necessary to fulfill the purposes outlined in this privacy policy, comply with legal obligations, resolve disputes, and enforce our agreements. Contact form submissions are typically retained for 6 months, while therapy records are maintained according to professional licensing and Washington State requirements.

Your Rights

You have the right to:

• Access and review your personal information
• Request corrections to inaccurate information
• Request deletion of your data (subject to legal limitations)
• Opt out of non-essential communications
• File a complaint with relevant regulatory authorities

Cookies and Tracking

My website may use cookies and similar technologies to enhance your browsing experience and analyze website usage. You can control cookie settings through your browser preferences. Disabling cookies may affect some website functionality.

Children's Privacy

My services are not directed to children under 13. I do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 13 without parental consent. If you believe I have inadvertently collected such information, please contact me immediately.

Changes to This Policy

I may update this Privacy Policy periodically to reflect changes in my practices or applicable laws. I will notify you of any material changes by posting the updated policy on our website with a new effective date.

Contact Information

If you have questions about this Privacy Policy or how we handle your personal information, please contact me: