TERMS OF SERVICE

Privacy Policy – I Work Upstairs (counselling & Psychotherapy)

Last Updated: [2025]

Introduction: Purpose, Intent, and Scope

At I Work Upstairs, your privacy and trust are our highest priorities. We are committed to protecting your personal information and ensuring that your confidentiality is safeguarded at all times. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and protect your information in compliance with the Personal Health Information Protection Act (PHIPA), 2004 (Ontario).

This policy applies to all visitors to our website, current and prospective clients, and anyone who engages with our counselling and psychotherapy services. By accessing our website or using our services, you agree to the terms outlined below.

Disclaimer: This Privacy Policy is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While every effort has been made to ensure compliance with applicable privacy laws, including PHIPA, users are encouraged to seek independent legal advice regarding their specific rights and obligations.

Information We Collect

We may collect the following types of information:

• Personal Information: Name, contact details, email, phone number, billing details.

• Health Information: Information shared during counselling sessions or intake forms related to your mental health and treatment goals.

• Website Data: Non-identifiable information such as IP address, browser type, and cookies for analytics and website performance.
  
  

How We Use Your Information

Your information is used to:

• Provide counselling, psychotherapy, and related services.

• Communicate with you about appointments, billing, and care updates.

• Ensure continuity of care and accurate health records.

• Meet professional and legal requirements as set out by PHIPA and the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO).

• Improve our website and client experience through analytics.

Client Rights & Choices

As a client, you have the right to:

• Access and Request Copies of your health records.

• Request Corrections to ensure your records are accurate.

• Withdraw Consent for the collection, use, or disclosure of your personal information, except where required by law.

• File a Complaint with the Information and Privacy Commissioner of Ontario (IPC) if you believe your privacy rights have been breached.
  
  

  • More information: www.ipc.on.ca
    
    

Electronic Communication

We may use email, text, or online forms to communicate with you. While every effort is made to protect your information, electronic communications may not always be secure. By choosing to communicate electronically, you acknowledge and accept this risk.

Virtual Therapy / Telehealth

If you participate in counselling sessions online:

• Sessions are conducted through secure, encrypted platforms.

• We take all reasonable steps to protect your privacy.

• You are responsible for ensuring your own confidentiality during remote sessions (e.g., choosing a private location and secure internet connection).
  
  

Disclosure of Information

Your personal health information will only be shared in the following circumstances:

• With your consent, to collaborate with another health professional.

• When required by law (e.g., risk of harm to self or others, child protection concerns, or court orders).

• With service providers who assist in delivering services (e.g., billing software), who are required to comply with PHIPA and privacy safeguards.
  
  

Data Storage and Security

• Health records are stored securely in compliance with PHIPA standards.

• Records are maintained for the period required by Ontario law and professional standards.

• Digital data is encrypted and password-protected.
  
  

Cookies and Analytics

Our website may use cookies and third-party tools such as Google Analytics to improve performance and understand how users interact with the site. These tools may collect non-identifiable information, including IP address, browser type, and browsing patterns. You can disable cookies in your browser settings if you prefer not to share this information.

Services for Ontario Residents

Our counselling and psychotherapy services are provided in accordance with Ontario law and are intended for residents of Ontario, Canada. Visitors accessing this site from outside Ontario should note that services may not be available in their jurisdiction.

Children and Minors

For clients under 18 years of age, parental or guardian consent may be required. The handling of records for minors follows Ontario’s legal and ethical requirements.

Changes to This Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. The “Last Updated” date will reflect the most recent version. Continued use of our website and services constitutes acceptance of any changes.

Contact Us

If you have questions about this Privacy Policy or how your information is handled, please contact:

I Work Upstairs – Counselling & Therapy
Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
Email: "iWORKUPSTAIRS [at] GMAIL [dot] com"