Ensuring Privacy and Effective Communication

Explore our policies designed to protect your privacy while facilitating efficient communication. Understand how we manage interactions to maintain confidentiality and support your needs.

Your Privacy, Our Priority

Connect with Confidence

Discover how our communication policies safeguard your information and enhance your experience with us.

Communication Policy Overview

Text Messages for Administrative Use Only

Text Message and Voice Mail Policy

Please be aware that Text Messages and Voicemail are not entirely confidential. Therefore, we kindly ask that you refrain from sharing any personally identifiable information, such as your Social Security number or Date of Birth. While you may use text messaging and voicemail for appointment cancellations, we strongly encourage you to conduct all communications regarding your care, appointments, or any therapy-related matters through the client portal for your privacy and security.

Limitations of Text Messaging

Secure Client Portal for Confidentiality

Secure Client Portal for Communication

We invite you to utilize our secure patient portal for all communications. This ensures that your information is managed within a HIPAA compliant platform, safeguarding your privacy and ensuring that your data remains confidential within our practice, unless disclosure is mandated by law.

Emergency Communication Guidelines

In the event of an emergency, it is crucial to seek immediate assistance. Please proceed to the nearest emergency room or dial 911 for urgent help. For immediate crisis support, you may also contact or text 988.

Our practice’s communication channels, including text messaging and voicemail, are not equipped to handle emergency situations. We aim to respond to non-emergency messages within 24 business hours. Your safety is our priority, and we encourage you to utilize appropriate emergency services when necessary.

Remember, text messages to our practice are intended solely for brief administrative matters, such as scheduling appointments. They are not confidential and should not include sensitive personal or medical information. For secure and confidential communication, please use our client portal.

We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in adhering to these guidelines to ensure your safety and privacy are maintained at all times.

Public Interaction Policy

Maintaining Client Privacy in Public Spaces

At A Mind at Ease, we prioritize your privacy and confidentiality, especially in public settings. If we encounter each other outside of the practice, I will not initiate any acknowledgment unless you choose to do so first. This approach is designed to protect your privacy and allow you to control the context of our interaction.

Should you decide to greet me in public, I will respect your lead in defining the nature of our relationship. At no point will I disclose your status as a client or the reasons for your visits. Your confidentiality is paramount, and these measures are in place to safeguard your personal information and comfort.

Online Review Policy

Commitment to Client Confidentiality

Our practice, Chris Cognetta, does not solicit or respond to online reviews. This policy is in place to protect your confidentiality and adhere to ethical standards. Engaging in online discussions about client experiences could compromise privacy and violate HIPAA regulations.

We understand that feedback is important, and we encourage you to share any concerns or compliments directly with us through secure channels. Maintaining the confidentiality of our clients is a cornerstone of our practice, and we are committed to upholding these standards in all aspects of our service.

We appreciate your understanding and support in preserving the integrity of our therapeutic environment. Your privacy and trust are invaluable to us, and we strive to maintain them through our policies and practices.

Filing a Complaint

Professional Counseling Services

If you have concerns regarding the professional counseling services provided, you have the right to file a complaint. For issues related to services offered by a Licensed Professional Counselor or LPC Associate in Texas, please reach out to the Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council (BHEC). Their office is located at 1801 Congress Avenue, Suite 7.300, Austin, Texas 78701. You can contact them by phone at (512) 305-7700 or use their toll-free number for investigations and complaints at (800) 821-3205. Detailed instructions and the official complaint form are available on the BHEC website. Please ensure that all complaints are submitted using the approved form, which can be mailed or emailed to the agency. Visit:  https://bhec.texas.gov/tbhec/discipline-and-complaints/  for more information

It is important to follow the guidelines provided by BHEC to ensure your complaint is processed efficiently. This helps maintain the standards of professional counseling services and addresses any concerns you may have.

Need More Information?

If you have any questions or need further clarification regarding our communication and complaint policy, please do not hesitate to reach out. We are here to support you and ensure you have all the necessary information to feel confident in your interactions with our practice. Your privacy and understanding are our top priorities.