HIPAA NOTICE OF PRIVACY PRACTICES: TEXT MESSAGING DISCLOSURE

Effective Date: August 31, 2026

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This notice describes how medical and psychological information about you may be used and disclosed regarding text messaging (SMS) communications, and how you can get access to this information. Please review it carefully.

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1. Our Legal Duty and Commitment to Your Privacy

Mindful Psychology and Wellness Center, Inc. is required by law to maintain the privacy of your Protected Health Information (PHI) in accordance with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and Florida law. This Notice explains how we utilize text messaging (SMS) for communication, the potential privacy risks involved, and how your information is protected.

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2. Standard SMS / Text Messaging is Not Secure

Please be advised that standard text messaging (SMS) utilizes public cellular networks and is not a secure or encrypted method of communication. There is an inherent risk that unencrypted electronic communications and PHI could be intercepted, viewed, or accessed by unauthorized third parties (such as cellular service providers, malware, or individuals with access to your device).

By electing to communicate with our practice via text message, you acknowledge that you understand these security risks and explicitly accept them.

 

3. Permitted Uses and Disclosures of Text Messaging

We restrict text messaging to administrative, non-clinical purposes to minimize risks to your privacy. We may use text messaging for:

• Appointment Reminders: Sending automated or manual notifications regarding your upcoming scheduled sessions.

• Scheduling Updates: Adjusting appointment times, confirming cancellations, or notifying you of office delays or closures.

• Administrative Alerts: Providing status updates regarding billing statements, insurance verification requests, or instructions to check your secure patient portal.

 

4. Strict Limitations on Clinical and Confidential Content

To comply with the Florida Board of Psychology ethical codes and HIPAA standards, text messaging must never be used to transmit clinical or therapeutic information.

• No Therapy via Text: Do not text your provider details about your mental health symptoms, personal history, or therapeutic crises. Your provider will not engage in clinical dialogue over text.

• Secure Alternatives: All clinical conversations must occur during your scheduled sessions, via telephone, or through our SimplePractice, our fully encrypted, HIPAA-compliant patient portal.

 

5. Emergency and Crisis Communications Disclaimer

Text messaging is not monitored continuously by clinical staff and must never be used for mental health crises or emergencies.

• If you are experiencing a life-threatening or psychological emergency, please call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.

• You can also call or text the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 for immediate, confidential support 24/7.

 

6. Strict Mobile Privacy Protection (A2P 10DLC Carrier Compliance)

We respect your digital privacy. No mobile information will be shared with third parties, partners, or affiliates for marketing or promotional purposes. This strictly excludes text messaging originator opt-in data and consent; your SMS opt-in information, phone number, and communication history will not be shared, sold, or rented to any third party for any reason.

 

7. Your Rights and How to Revoke Consent (Opt-Out)

You have the right to opt-out of text messaging communications at any time without penalty or impact on your therapeutic care.

• To Opt-Out: You can withdraw your consent instantly by replying STOP to any text message you receive from us. You may also request to opt-out verbally during a session or by emailing our office manager.

• To Get Assistance: Reply HELP for text-based assistance instructions, or contact our administrative office directly.

• Cost and Frequency: Message and data rates may apply depending on your mobile carrier plan. Message frequency varies based on your appointment schedule and practice needs.

 

8. Questions and Complaints

If you believe your privacy rights regarding electronic communications have been violated, you may file a complaint with our Privacy Officer or with the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). We will not retaliate against you for filing a complaint.

 

Privacy Officer Contact Information:

• Practice Name: Mindful Psychology and Wellness Center

• Contact Person/Title: Lisa Davenport, Ph.D., Practice Owner

• Phone Number: (786) 383-1856

• Email Address: info@mindfulpsychwellnesscenter.com

• Mailing Address: 1931 N.W. 150th Avenue,  Suite 107, Pembroke Pines, FL 33028