Privacy Policy

Last Updated: February 6, 2025

Overview

At Radical Roots Psychotherapy, we take your privacy seriously. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, and protect your personal and health information. We comply with all applicable privacy laws, including HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act), state privacy laws, and professional ethical requirements.

Information We Collect

Personal Information

  • Name and contact information

  • Demographic information

  • Insurance information (if applicable)

  • Payment information

  • Emergency contact information

Health Information

  • Medical and mental health history

  • Treatment records and progress notes

  • Assessment and diagnostic information

  • Information shared during therapy sessions

Website Information

  • Contact form submissions

  • Scheduling information

  • IP addresses and browser information

  • Cookies and usage data

How We Use Your Information

Treatment

  • Provide therapy services

  • Maintain treatment records

  • Coordinate care with other providers (with your consent)

Payment

  • Process payments

  • Generate invoices and superbills

  • Handle insurance claims (if applicable)

Healthcare Operations

  • Schedule appointments

  • Send appointment reminders

  • Improve our services

  • Comply with legal requirements

Information Sharing and Disclosure

We will not share your information without your permission, except in specific circumstances:

Required Disclosures

  • Child or elder abuse reporting

  • Imminent risk of harm to self or others

  • Court orders or subpoenas

  • Insurance audits

  • Professional consultation (no identifying information shared)

Business Associates

Any third-party service providers who assist in our operations (e.g., electronic health records, scheduling software) are bound by HIPAA-compliant Business Associate Agreements.

Your Rights

You have the right to:

  • Access your health information

  • Request amendments to your records

  • Receive an accounting of disclosures

  • Request restrictions on information sharing

  • Choose how we communicate with you

  • Receive a copy of this privacy policy

  • File a complaint if you believe your privacy rights have been violated

Data Security

We implement appropriate security measures to protect your information:

  • Encrypted electronic health records

  • Secure messaging systems

  • Password-protected devices and accounts

  • Limited access to authorized personnel

  • Regular security updates and monitoring

Website Privacy

Cookies

Our website uses cookies to:

  • Improve site functionality

  • Remember your preferences

  • Analyze site usage You can control cookie settings through your browser.

Third-Party Services

We use certain third-party services for:

  • Scheduling

  • Payment processing

  • Website analytics Each service has its own privacy policy.

Special Notes for Telehealth

For virtual therapy sessions:

  • We use HIPAA-compliant video platforms

  • Sessions are never recorded

  • Additional security measures are in place to protect your privacy

Changes to This Policy

We may update this policy periodically. We will notify you of any significant changes and maintain a current version on our website.

Contact Information

For privacy-related questions or concerns:

Compliance Officer

Ruby Wara-Goss, LCSW Privacy Officer Radical Roots Psychotherapy (510) 327-3201

Additional Resources

Acknowledgment

By using our services, you acknowledge that you have read and understand this Privacy Policy. We will also ask you to sign a separate acknowledgment form during your first visit.