Privacy Policy

Information collected through this website

When you visit themindsharbor.com, certain information may be collected automatically, such as your IP address, browser type, device information, and pages visited. This information is used solely to improve the website experience and is not linked to your identity.

If you voluntarily submit information through the contact form—such as your name, email, phone number, or the message you share—that information is used only to respond to your inquiry and discuss whether we are a good fit for therapy. It is not sold, shared with advertisers, or used for marketing purposes.

Cookies and analytics

This website may use cookies and basic analytics tools (such as those provided by Squarespace) to understand how visitors interact with the site. You can control or disable cookies through your browser settings at any time. Disabling cookies will not affect your ability to reach out or schedule services.

Email and text communication

Please be aware that email and text message are not fully secure forms of communication. While I take reasonable precautions, I cannot guarantee the privacy of messages sent via email or text. I recommend avoiding sharing highly sensitive clinical information through these channels. For current clients, the secure SimplePractice client portal is the preferred method of communication.

Clinical records and HIPAA

All clinical records—including intake paperwork, session notes, assessments, and billing information—are maintained through SimplePractice, a HIPAA-compliant electronic health record platform with end-to-end encryption. Your clinical information is protected by federal law under HIPAA and by Maryland state law.

As a client, you have the right to:

• Access and receive a copy of your records
• Request corrections to your records
• Know who has had access to your information
• Request restrictions on how your information is used
• File a complaint if you believe your privacy rights have been violated

The full HIPAA Notice of Privacy Practices is provided to all clients at the start of treatment and is available upon request at any time.

Limits to confidentiality

What you share in therapy is protected by law. There are a few limited situations in which I am legally or ethically required to share information without your consent:

• If there is a reasonable belief of imminent risk of serious harm to yourself or others
• If there is suspected abuse or neglect of a child, elderly person, or vulnerable adult
• If records are subpoenaed by a court of law
• If insurance reimbursement is requested (limited information required for billing)

These limits are explained in greater detail during your first session.

Third-party services

The Mind's Harbor uses the following third-party services, each of which maintains its own privacy and security standards:

• Squarespace — website hosting and contact form processing
• SimplePractice — HIPAA-compliant scheduling, telehealth, documentation, and billing
• Payment processors — secure credit card processing through SimplePractice

I do not share, sell, or rent your personal information to any outside parties beyond what is necessary to deliver therapy services.

Children's privacy

This website is not directed at children under 13, and I do not knowingly collect information from children through the website. Therapy services for minors are arranged directly with a parent or legal guardian.

Your rights and choices

You have the right to:

• Know what personal information is collected about you
• Request deletion of any information submitted through the contact form
• Opt out of any non-essential communications at any time

To exercise any of these rights, please contact me directly using the information below.

Changes to this policy

This privacy policy may be updated from time to time to reflect changes in practice or legal requirements. The "last updated" date at the top of this page will reflect any revisions.

Contact

If you have questions about this privacy policy or how your information is handled, please reach out:

Arianna Stafford, LCPC
The Mind's Harbor
Email: Arianna@themindsharbor.com
Phone: