Privacy Policy for Strength in Heart Counselling
Last updated: June 27, 2025
At Strength in Heart Counselling (“we,” “us,” “our”), your privacy and the confidentiality of your personal information are of utmost importance to us. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, store, and protect your personal information when you visit our website, book services, or interact with our team, whether virtually or in person.
No mobile information will be shared with third parties/affiliates for marketing/promotional purposes. All other categories exclude text messaging originator opt-in data and consent; this information will not be shared with any third parties.
1. Information We Collect
We collect personal information necessary to provide you with counselling services and support, including:
Contact Information: Name, phone number, email address, and mailing address.
Demographic Information: Age, preferred pronouns, and other relevant background details.
Health & Service Information: Information you share during intake, session notes, and relevant health history.
Payment Details: Payment method and billing information (processed securely through the Jane app).
Technical Data: IP address, browser type, device information, and usage data collected via cookies or similar technologies for website analytics.
2. How We Use Your Information
We use your information to:
Schedule and manage appointments.
Match you with the most suitable counsellor.
Provide counselling and therapeutic services.
Process payments and manage billing.
Communicate with you about appointments, services, and updates.
Improve our services, website, and client experience.
Comply with legal and regulatory requirements.
3. How We Share Your Information
Your personal information is kept strictly confidential. We do not sell or rent your information to third parties. We may share information only in the following circumstances:
With your explicit consent (for referrals or coordination of care).
With service providers who assist with scheduling, billing, or IT support (e.g., Jane app), all of whom are contractually obligated to maintain confidentiality.
When required by law (e.g., court order, risk of harm to self or others, or as otherwise required by Canadian law).
4. Virtual Counselling & Data Security
For virtual sessions, we use video platforms that comply with Canadian healthcare privacy standards (e.g., HIPAA/PIPEDA-compliant). All electronic records are stored securely, and access is restricted to authorized team members only.
5. Your Rights & Choices
You have the right to:
Access, update, or correct your personal information.
Withdraw consent for us to use your information (subject to legal and contractual restrictions).
Request a copy of your records.
Ask questions or file a complaint about our privacy practices.
To exercise your rights, please contact us (see Section 8 below).
6. Cookies & Website Analytics
Our website may use cookies and similar technologies to enhance your browsing experience and collect usage data. You can adjust your browser settings to refuse cookies; however, this may affect website functionality.
7. Retention of Information
We retain your personal information only as long as necessary for the purposes outlined above and as required by law and professional regulations.
8. Contact Us
If you have questions, concerns, or requests regarding your privacy or this policy, please contact us:
Strength in Heart Counselling
1183 Fort Street, Victoria, BC
Email: admin@strengthinheart.ca
Phone: 250-818-9817
9. Updates to This Policy
We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. Changes will be posted on our website with the updated effective date.
Your privacy, safety, and trust are central to our work together. Thank you for choosing Strength in Heart Counselling.