Privacy Policy

1. Information We Collect

Personal Information

We collect identifiable details such as your name, date of birth, contact information, and payment details when you schedule appointments, make inquiries, or complete forms.

Health Information (Protected Health Information – PHI)

We collect medical history, treatment details, and other related data necessary to provide psychiatric and therapeutic services. All health information is handled in compliance with HIPAA.

Technical Information

When you visit our website, we may automatically collect data such as your IP address, browser type, device information, and usage activity via analytics tools and cookies.

2. How We Use Your Information

Your information is used to:

• Provide and manage psychiatric and therapeutic services.
• Communicate about appointments, billing, and care updates.
• Improve our website, clinical services, and patient experience.
• Comply with applicable legal, regulatory, and ethical obligations.

We do not sell or rent your personal or health information.

3. Sharing of Information

We may share limited information only as necessary to support your care or comply with the law:

• Service Providers: For scheduling, billing, or website hosting (all under confidentiality agreements).
• Legal Authorities: When required by law, court order, or to prevent imminent harm.
• With Your Consent: For coordination with other healthcare providers.

We never sell, trade, or otherwise share your personal data for marketing purposes.

4. HIPAA Compliance

As a healthcare provider, Valentine Identity Psychiatry complies fully with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).

Your Protected Health Information (PHI) is used and disclosed only in accordance with HIPAA regulations and applicable state privacy laws.

For more details, see the "HIPAA Notice of Privacy Practices" section below.

5. Cookies and Tracking

Our website may use cookies and analytics tools to better understand visitor interactions and improve functionality. You may disable cookies in your browser settings; however, some features of the website may not function properly without them.

6. Your Rights

You have the right to:

• Access and request copies of your health records.
• Request corrections to inaccurate information.
• Request restrictions or limit how we use or share your information.
• Request deletion of certain personal information (subject to legal obligations).
• Opt out of certain communications.

To exercise these rights, please contact our office directly (contact details below).

7. Data Security

We use administrative, technical, and physical safeguards to protect your information from unauthorized access, alteration, disclosure, or destruction. All digital health records are stored in HIPAA-compliant systems with restricted access to authorized personnel only.

8. Practice and Patient Policies

Confidentiality

• All medical and personal records are securely stored and accessible only to authorized staff.
• Information will not be disclosed without written consent except in cases required by law (e.g., risk of harm, abuse, or court order).
• Sensitive communications are conducted discreetly through your approved methods of contact.

Appointments & Telehealth

• Appointments must be scheduled in advance by phone, patient portal, or website.
• Please arrive on time or ensure stable internet access for telehealth sessions. Late arrivals may require rescheduling.

Cancellations

• A 48-hour notice is required for cancellations or rescheduling.
• Missed or late-cancelled appointments may incur a full session charge.

Payments & Insurance

• Payment is due at the time of service.
• We accept credit/debit cards and securely store them for automatic processing on appointment dates.
• Dr. Jessee Valentine is an out-of-network provider.

Respect & Conduct

• We maintain a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment for all individuals.
• Disrespectful or harassing behavior will not be tolerated.
• Sessions must not be attended under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Feedback

We welcome your feedback and strive to address all concerns promptly. You may contact your provider or submit input through our patient portal.

9. Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI)

We use AI technology responsibly to enhance your experience and the quality of your care:

• AI Virtual Assistant: May be used for scheduling, answering common questions, and sharing practice information. The AI Virtual Assistant does not access your clinical records.
• AI Note-Taking Tool: A HIPAA-compliant, AI-powered tool may record and transcribe session content to assist providers in creating accurate clinical notes. Audio files are deleted immediately after transcription. This tool allows your provider to give their undivided attention during your sessions.

10. Social Media Policy

To protect confidentiality and avoid dual relationships, providers do not accept friend or contact requests from current or former patients on any social media platforms (Facebook, LinkedIn, etc.). This ensures that professional boundaries and privacy are maintained at all times.

11. Electronic Communications

While email and text messaging may be used for limited administrative communication, these are not secure channels for sensitive or emergency information.

• Do not use email or text to discuss therapy content or mental health emergencies.
• For emergencies, call 911 or go to your nearest emergency department.
• Messages may be added to your medical record at your provider's discretion.

12. HIPAA Notice of Privacy Practices

Overview

This Notice describes how Dr. Jessee Valentine ("the Practice") may use and disclose your Protected Health Information (PHI), and your rights regarding that information.

We are required by law to:

• Keep your health information private.
• Provide this notice outlining our privacy practices.
• Notify you in the event of a data breach.
• Follow the terms of this notice until updated.

We reserve the right to amend this Notice and make changes effective for all PHI we maintain.

How Your Information Is Used

Your information may be used or disclosed to:

• Provide treatment and coordinate care.
• Obtain payment and manage billing.
• Conduct healthcare operations, quality improvement, or audits.
• Comply with legal, regulatory, or public health obligations.

Most uses or disclosures outside of these purposes require your written authorization (e.g., for marketing or release of psychotherapy notes). You may revoke such authorization at any time.

Disclosures Without Authorization

• Emergencies: Limited information may be shared to address urgent safety needs.
• Legal Requirements: Court orders, subpoenas, or mandated reporting of abuse.
• Public Safety: If you pose imminent danger to yourself or others.
• Health Oversight: Audits or inspections by authorized agencies.
• Business Associates: Certain vendors performing administrative functions under strict confidentiality agreements.
• Research & Quality Assurance: Non-identifiable or authorized data may be used to support clinical improvements or research planning.

Your HIPAA Rights

You have the right to:

• Inspect or receive copies of your health information.
• Request corrections to your record.
• Obtain a record of disclosures.
• Request restrictions on certain disclosures.
• Request alternative communication methods.
• File a complaint without fear of retaliation.

Complaints or privacy requests may be directed to our Privacy Officer at (212) 655-1345.

13. Updates to This Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy periodically to reflect changes in legal requirements or practice operations. Updates will be posted on our website with the revised "Last Updated" date.

14. Contact Us

If you have any questions, concerns, or requests related to privacy or your personal data, please contact us: