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Privacy Policy

Privacy Policy

Last Updated: [12/1/2025]

This Privacy Policy explains how Ronda Wickel, LICSW (“I,” “me,” “my,” or “the practice”) collects, uses, and protects information when you visit my website or use my services. I am committed to maintaining your privacy and complying with all applicable federal and Washington State laws, including HIPAA where it applies.

1. Information I Collect
A. Personal Information You Provide

You may provide personal information when you:

  • Contact me through email or phone

  • Request an appointment

  • Engage in telehealth services

This may include:

  • Name

  • Email address

  • Phone number

  • Any information you voluntarily include in a message

  • Insurance information (if applicable)

  • Demographic information required for treatment

B. Automatically Collected Data

When you visit my website, standard information may be automatically collected, such as:

  • IP address

  • Browser type

  • Device information

  • Pages viewed and time spent on the site

This data is used only to improve the website and is not linked to clinical records.

2. How Your Information Is Used

Your information may be used for:

  • Responding to inquiries or appointment requests

  • Providing counseling or telehealth services

  • Verifying insurance benefits (if applicable)

  • Maintaining medical records as required by law

  • Sending practice-related updates (never marketing without consent)

  • Improving website functionality

I do not sell or share your information for advertising purposes.

3. HIPAA and Clinical Records

Clinical information shared during therapy sessions is protected health information (PHI) and is safeguarded under HIPAA.
PHI is stored in secure, HIPAA-compliant electronic health record systems. It is not stored on this website.

I may use or disclose PHI only when:

  • You authorize it in writing

  • It is required for treatment, payment, or healthcare operations

  • Required by law (e.g., danger to self/others, abuse reporting)

A full Notice of Privacy Practices (NPP) is provided to clients before beginning services.

4. Cookies & Analytics

This website may use cookies or third-party analytics tools (such as Google Analytics) to understand how the site is used.
These tools may collect anonymous usage data but do not access or store any PHI.

You may disable cookies through your browser settings.

5. Third-Party Services

The website may contain links to third-party platforms such as:

  • Telehealth platforms

  • Scheduling systems

Each third party has its own privacy policy.
I am not responsible for the practices of these external sites.

6. Data Security

I take reasonable steps to protect your information, including:

  • Encrypted communication through secure platforms

  • HIPAA-compliant electronic record systems

  • Regular password and security protocol updates

However, no online system can guarantee 100% security.

7. Your Rights

Depending on your status as a website visitor or client, you may have rights including:

  • Requesting access to your records

  • Requesting corrections

  • Requesting restrictions on use or disclosure of PHI

  • Requesting communications by alternative means

  • Filing a complaint if you believe privacy rights were violated

Details are provided in the HIPAA Notice of Privacy Practices.

8. Changes to This Policy

This Privacy Policy may be updated at any time.
The “Last Updated” date will reflect changes.

10. Contact Information

If you have questions about this Privacy Policy or the privacy of your information, you may contact:

Ronda Wickel, LICSW
R&R Counseling LLC
Spokane, WA
Email: wickel_r@yahoo.com
Phone: (509)866-6323

If you want, I can also create:
✔ A HIPAA Notice of Privacy Practices (NPP)
✔ A Website Disclaimer (e.g., not emergency services)
✔ A Terms of Service page
✔ A more formal/legal tone or a shorter, client-friendly version

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