
Privacy & Grievance Policy
Glimmer Path Collective
Effective Date: February 17th, 2025
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Introduction
Glimmer Path Collective ("we," "us," or "our") is committed to protecting the privacy and confidentiality of our clients' personal and health information. This Privacy Policy outlines how we collect, use, and safeguard information obtained through our practice in compliance with federal and Arizona state laws, including the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) Code of Ethics, and Arizona Board of Behavioral Health Examiners (AZBBHE) regulations.
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1. Information We Collect
We collect the following types of information to provide therapy services:
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Personal Identifiable Information (PII): Name, date of birth, contact details, and emergency contact information.
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Health Information: Medical history, mental health records, treatment plans, progress notes, and other relevant healthcare details.
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Billing Information: Insurance details, payment history, and financial information required for processing transactions.
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Technology Usage Data: If you use our website or telehealth services, we may collect device information, IP addresses, and browser details for security purposes.
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2. How We Use Your Information
Your information is used for:
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Providing therapy and mental health services.
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Treatment planning and coordination of care.
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Billing, insurance claims, and payment processing.
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Compliance with legal and ethical obligations.
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Appointment scheduling and communication.
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Improving the quality and effectiveness of our services.
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3. How We Protect Your Information
We take strict measures to safeguard your information, including:
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Maintaining electronic health records (EHR) in secure, HIPAA-compliant systems.
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Implementing encryption, firewalls, and access controls to prevent unauthorized access.
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Restricting information access to authorized personnel only.
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Training staff on privacy and confidentiality best practices.
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4. Information Sharing and Disclosure
We do not sell or share your information for marketing purposes. Your information may be shared only in the following circumstances:
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With Your Consent: We may share your information with other healthcare providers or third parties at your written request.
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For Treatment, Payment, and Healthcare Operations: We may share necessary information with insurance providers, billing services, and other healthcare professionals involved in your care.
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Legal and Safety Obligations: We may disclose information if required by law, court order, or in cases of suspected abuse, neglect, self-harm, or harm to others. Your designated emergency contact may also be notified in the event of a crisis.
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5. Your Rights Regarding Your Information
Under HIPAA and Arizona state law, you have the following rights:
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Access Your Records: Request copies of your health records (fees may apply).
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Amend Your Records: Request corrections to inaccurate or incomplete information.
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Restrict Information Sharing: Request limitations on how your information is used or shared (subject to legal and operational constraints).
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Confidential Communication: Request alternative means of communication (e.g., different phone numbers, email, or mailing addresses).
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File a Complaint: If you believe your privacy rights have been violated, you can file a complaint with us or with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).
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6. NASW Code of Ethics & AZBBHE Compliance
As licensed social workers, we adhere to the NASW Code of Ethics and Arizona Board of Behavioral Health Examiners' regulations, ensuring professional, ethical, and legal conduct in all therapeutic services.
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7. Telehealth and Electronic Communications
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If you engage in telehealth services, we use HIPAA-compliant platforms to ensure your privacy.
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Electronic communication (e.g., email, text messages) may not be fully secure. We encourage using secure client portals when possible.
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Telehealth may have limitations, including the inability to respond to crisis situations effectively. If you are in crisis, you should contact local emergency services or crisis hotlines immediately.
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Clients must be physically located in Arizona at the time of service to receive telehealth services.
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It is your responsibility to ensure you are in a private and secure location during telehealth sessions to maintain confidentiality.
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8. Social Media Policy
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Clients who choose to follow Glimmer Path Collective on social media do so at their own discretion and acknowledge that doing so may compromise their confidentiality.
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Social media accounts are not used for communication, scheduling, or therapeutic discussions.
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Therapists will not respond to direct messages (DMs) or comments directed toward any specific client. Any responses, if made, will be general in nature and not therapeutic advice.
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9. Termination of Services & Risks
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Clients have the right to discontinue therapy at any time.
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The therapist may also determine that a client is not an appropriate fit for the therapeutic alliance and may refer the client to another provider.
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If Glimmer Path Collective closes for any reason, reasonable steps will be taken to transition clients to other services. However, clients are responsible for following up and securing continued care.
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Finding a suitable therapist may take time, and clients are encouraged to discuss concerns with their therapist to ensure the best therapeutic match.
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10. Grievance Policy
If you have concerns or complaints about the services provided, you are encouraged to:
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Discuss the issue with your therapist directly to seek a resolution.
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If unresolved, submit a formal grievance in writing to the practice’s leadership team.
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If further action is needed, you may file a complaint with the Arizona Board of Behavioral Health Examiners (AZBBHE) or the National Association of Social Workers (NASW).
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We are committed to addressing concerns in a professional and timely manner to ensure quality care.
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11. Legal Disclaimer: Risks and Benefits of Therapy
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Therapy is a collaborative process aimed at promoting personal growth and well-being. However, it is important to acknowledge that there are both potential benefits and risks.
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Benefits of Therapy: Clients may experience relief from emotional distress, improved coping strategies, enhanced relationships, and personal growth.
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Risks of Therapy: Some clients may experience temporary emotional discomfort, difficult emotions, or challenges as they work through personal issues. Progress may take time, and outcomes are not guaranteed.
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Clients are encouraged to communicate openly with their therapist about concerns, goals, and progress.
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Therapy is not a substitute for emergency psychiatric care. If you are in crisis, please call 911, a local crisis hotline, or go to the nearest emergency room.
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12. Changes to This Privacy Policy
We may update this policy periodically. The latest version will always be available on our website. Continued use of our services after updates constitutes acceptance of the revised policy.
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13. Contact Information
If you have any questions about this Privacy Policy or your rights, please contact:
Glimmer Path Collective PLLC
kayla@glimmerpathcollective.com
(602) 456-0844