1. Purpose

This Privacy Policy outlines how Megan James Counselling (“we/us”) collects, uses, safeguards, and discloses your personal health information in compliance with:

• Alberta Health Information Act (HIA)
• Alberta Personal Information Protection Act (PIPA)
• CPCA Code of Ethics (2020) and Standards of Practice (2021)

2. Collection of Information

We collect only the information necessary to provide safe, effective counselling services, including:

• Contact details (name, phone number, address, email)
• Personal health history relevant to counselling goals
• Session notes and treatment plans
• Emergency contact information
• Payment and billing information (if applicable)

3. Use of Information

Your information is used to:

• Provide counselling services within our scope of practice
• Maintain accurate clinical records
• Communicate regarding appointments, billing, or treatment updates
• Fulfill regulatory, ethical, and legal obligations

We do not use your information for marketing without your explicit consent.

4. Consent

We require your informed consent before collecting or sharing your information.

• Consent is voluntary and ongoing
• You may withdraw consent in writing at any time, subject to legal/ethical limits

5. Confidentiality & Exceptions

Your records are confidential and will not be disclosed without your consent, except when required by law, such as:

• Imminent risk of serious harm to self or others
• Suspected child abuse or neglect
• Court order, subpoena, or lawful investigation
• Professional supervision or consultation (with identifying details minimized)

6. Storage & Security

• Records are stored securely in locked cabinets and/or encrypted electronic systems
• Access is restricted to authorized personnel only
• Records are retained for at least 10 years after the last client interaction (or 10 years past a minor’s 18th birthday), in accordance with CPCA and Alberta HIA requirements

7. Client Access to Records

You have the right to:

• Request access to your personal counselling records
• Request corrections or amendments if information is inaccurate
• Receive a summary of your file within a reasonable timeframe

Requests must be made in writing. Some exceptions may apply (e.g., if disclosure could reasonably be expected to result in harm).

8. Electronic Communication & Online Counselling

• We use secure, CPCA‑compliant platforms for tele‑counselling.
• While we take precautions to protect confidentiality, electronic communication (email, video, text) carries risks (e.g., interception, technical breaches).
• Clients agree to take reasonable steps (private location, secure devices, strong passwords) to maintain privacy.

9. Third‑Party Services

If we use third‑party service providers (e.g., billing, electronic health record systems), they are required to comply with Alberta’s privacy laws and CPCA standards.

10. Concerns & Complaints

If you have concerns about your privacy, please contact us directly:

• Megan James:
  
  • megan_james@live.com
  • 780-224-7284

If unresolved, you may contact:

• Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner of Alberta (oipc.ab.ca)
• Canadian Professional Counsellors Association (CPCA)

11. Policy Updates

This Privacy Policy may be updated periodically. Any changes will be communicated to clients and posted in our office/website.