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Privacy Policy

Privacy Policy for Melissa Wacks, LCSW/LICSW

Last Updated: April 12, 2026

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Melissa Wacks, L.C.S.W. ("I," "me," "my," or "Practice") operates melissawackslcsw.com (the "Site"). I am committed to protecting your privacy and complying with HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) and New York State Mental Hygiene Law.

This Privacy Policy explains how I collect, use, and protect information when you visit my website, and how I handle protected health information (PHI) gathered through the site.

Information I Collect

I collect information that you voluntarily provide to me, as well as automatic data, including:

  • Personal Identification Information: Name, email address, phone number, and billing information (e.g., when you fill out a contact form, request an appointment, or use the client portal).

  • Health Information (PHI): Any information you submit regarding your mental health, therapy needs, or clinical history.

  • Usage Data: IP address, browser type, pages visited, and time spent on the site.

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How I Use Your Information

I use the information collected to:

  • Provide, operate, and maintain therapy services.

  • Communicate with you (appointment scheduling, responding to inquiries).

  • Process payments securely.

  • Improve website functionality and security.

  • Comply with legal and regulatory requirements in New York. 

Confidentiality and Disclosure of Information

As a New York LCSW, your privacy is paramount. 

  • No Selling Data: I do not sell, trade, or rent your personal information to third parties.

  • Service Providers: I may use trusted, HIPAA-compliant third-party vendors (e.g., electronic health record systems, email service providers) who have signed a Business Associate Agreement (BAA) to protect your data.

  • Legal Requirements: I may disclose your information if required by law, such as to comply with a subpoena, or to prevent a serious threat to health or safety. 

Telehealth Privacy (If Applicable)

If you engage in telemental health, I follow New York State Telehealth Regulations. 

  • Sessions are conducted over a secure, HIPAA-compliant platform.

  • Sessions are not recorded without your written consent.

  • You are responsible for ensuring your location is private during our sessions.

Security of Your Information

I implement reasonable administrative, technical, and physical safeguards to protect your personal information, including encryption for data transmission. While I strive to use industry-standard measures, no method of transmission over the Internet is 100% secure.

Your Rights

Under HIPAA and NY law, you have the right to: 

  • Access and receive a copy of your records.

  • Request corrections to your information.

  • Request restrictions on how your information is used.

  • Receive an accounting of disclosures of your PHI.

Changes to This Policy

I may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. Changes will be posted on this page with an updated "Last Updated" date.

Contact Information

If you have any questions about this Privacy Policy or my privacy practices, please contact me:

Name: Melissa Wacks, LCSW

Email: melissa@melissawackslcsw.com

Phone: 347-560-0140

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