Privacy Policy

Last Updated: July 30, 2025

About This Policy

Hill Country Hearts ("we," "us," or "our") is committed to protecting your privacy. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, and protect your personal information when you visit our website www.hillcountryhearts.com or use our services.

Information We Collect

Information You Provide Directly

When you use our website or contact us, we may collect:

  • Name and contact information (email, phone number, address)

  • Information submitted through contact forms or appointment requests

  • Any information you provide when scheduling appointments through our Acuity Scheduling system

Information Collected Automatically

Our website automatically collects certain information through:

  • Cookies and tracking technologies: We use cookies to improve your browsing experience and analyze website traffic

  • Website analytics: We collect information about how you use our website (pages visited, time spent, etc.)

  • Server logs: IP addresses, browser type, and device information

How We Use Your Information

We use your personal information to:

  • Provide mental health support services and crisis counseling

  • Schedule and manage appointments

  • Respond to your inquiries and contact requests

  • Improve our website and services

  • Comply with legal obligations and regulatory requirements

Information Sharing and Disclosure

We do not sell, trade, or rent your personal information to third parties. We may share your information only in the following circumstances:

Service Providers

We share information with trusted third-party service providers who help us operate our website and services:

  • Squarespace: Our website hosting provider processes your data according to their privacy policy

  • Acuity Scheduling: Our appointment scheduling system processes booking information

  • Email services: For communication and appointment confirmations

Legal Requirements

We may disclose information when required by law or to:

  • Comply with legal process or government requests

  • Protect the safety of individuals (duty to warn requirements)

  • Respond to emergencies or crisis situations

  • Report suspected abuse as required by law

Treatment and Care Coordination

In accordance with HIPAA and professional standards, we may share relevant treatment information with:

  • Other healthcare providers involved in your care (with your consent)

  • Family members or caregivers when appropriate and with consent

  • Emergency contacts in crisis situations

HIPAA and Mental Health Information

As a mental health service provider, we comply with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) privacy regulations. Your mental health information receives special protection under federal and state laws.

Psychotherapy Notes: Private therapy notes receive additional protection and are not shared without your specific written authorization, except in limited circumstances required by law.

Your Rights and Choices

You have the right to:

  • Access your personal information we have collected

  • Request correction of inaccurate information

  • Request deletion of your information (subject to legal retention requirements)

  • Opt out of non-essential communications

  • Withdraw consent for information sharing (where applicable)

To exercise these rights, contact us at [INSERT CONTACT EMAIL].

Data Security

We implement appropriate security measures to protect your personal information, including:

  • Secure data transmission (SSL encryption)

  • Restricted access to personal information

  • Regular security assessments

  • Staff training on privacy protection

Children's Privacy

Our services may be provided to minors. We comply with applicable laws regarding parental consent and access to minors' information. Parents or legal guardians generally have the right to access their minor child's information, subject to state law and clinical judgment.

Website Cookies

Our website uses cookies to:

  • Remember your preferences

  • Analyze website traffic and usage

  • Improve user experience

You can control cookies through your browser settings, though some website features may not function properly without cookies.

Third-Party Links

Our website may contain links to other websites. We are not responsible for the privacy practices of other sites. We encourage you to read their privacy policies.

Changes to This Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy periodically. We will notify you of significant changes by updating the "Last Updated" date above and, when appropriate, providing additional notice.

Contact Information

If you have questions about this Privacy Policy or our privacy practices, please contact us:

Hill Country Hearts
819 Water Street, Kerrville, TX 78028
Phone: (830) 955-1745
Email: kelsi8310@hillcountry.org
Crisis Line: 833-812-2480

A service of Hill Country MHDD Centers

Note: This Privacy Policy is designed to comply with applicable privacy laws, including HIPAA requirements for mental health information. For specific legal advice regarding your privacy rights or our obligations, please consult with a qualified attorney.