Privacy Policy

Effective Date: May 19. 2025
Practice Name: Michelle Martinez, LCSW
Website: www.michellemartinezlcsw.com

Your privacy is very important to us. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, and protect your personal information in accordance with California law (including the California Consumer Privacy Act/California Privacy Rights Act, “CCPA/CPRA”) and the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (“HIPAA”).

1. Information We Collect

When you visit our website or contact us, we may collect the following types of information:

Personal Information You Provide Voluntarily:

  • Name

  • Email address

  • Phone number

  • Other information you include in your inquiry or contact form

Automatically Collected Information:

  • IP address

  • Browser type

  • Device information

  • Website usage data (via cookies or analytics)

We do not collect Protected Health Information (PHI) through this website. If you become a client, your PHI will be handled in accordance with HIPAA regulations, which will be detailed in the Notice of Privacy Practices you’ll receive at intake.

2. Use of Information

We use the information you provide to:

  • Respond to inquiries or consultation requests

  • Schedule appointments

  • Improve website performance and user experience

  • Comply with professional and legal obligations

We do not sell or share your personal information for commercial purposes.

3. HIPAA Compliance

If you begin therapy, any personal or health-related information you share will be protected under HIPAA. This means:

  • Your information will be kept confidential and only shared with your consent or as legally required.

  • You have the right to request access to your health records, correct errors, and receive a copy of your records.

  • Electronic communications and documentation will be securely stored and transmitted.

You will receive a full Notice of Privacy Practices outlining your rights and our responsibilities under HIPAA during intake.

4. California Consumer Privacy Rights (CCPA/CPRA)

If you are a California resident, you have the right to:

  • Know what personal information we collect and how we use it

  • Request access to or deletion of your personal information

  • Opt out of the sale or sharing of personal information (we do not sell personal information)

  • Correct inaccurate personal data

To make a request, please contact us using the information below. We may need to verify your identity before processing your request.

5. Cookies and Analytics

Our website may use cookies and third-party analytics (like Google Analytics) to collect anonymous usage data. You can manage cookie preferences through your browser settings.

6. Data Security

We take reasonable and appropriate measures to protect your personal information from unauthorized access, disclosure, alteration, or destruction. No method of transmission over the Internet is 100% secure, so we cannot guarantee absolute security.

7. Third-Party Services

If you use any scheduling, telehealth, or contact forms on our site, they may be hosted by third-party providers that are required to comply with HIPAA and California privacy laws. Please review their individual privacy policies for more information.

8. Changes to This Policy

This policy may be updated periodically. Any changes will be posted on this page with an updated effective date.

9. Contact Information

If you have questions about this policy, HIPAA, or your California privacy rights, please contact:

Michelle Martinez
CA LCSW# 83316
michelle@michellemartinezlcsw.com
760-582-5127
386 W. Line St., Bishop, CA, 93514