
Privacy policy & HIPAA Infornation
Your Privacy is Protected
LeMaster Counseling Services, LLC is committed to protecting your privacy and maintaining the confidentiality of your personal health information. This notice describes how your health information may be used and disclosed and how you can access this information.
HIPAA Compliance
We strictly comply with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and all applicable state and federal privacy laws. Your protected health information (PHI) is kept confidential and secure.
Information We Collect
We collect only the information necessary to provide you with quality mental health services, including:
Contact information (name, address, phone, email)
Health insurance information (if applicable)
Clinical information related to your mental health treatment
Payment and billing information
How We Use Your Information
Your information is used solely for:
Providing mental health treatment and services
Processing payments and insurance claims
Scheduling appointments
Communicating with you about your care
Meeting legal and regulatory requirements
Information Sharing
Your information will NOT be shared without your written authorization, except in limited circumstances required by law:
When there is a serious threat to your safety or the safety of others
When required by court order or legal proceedings
For reporting suspected child or elder abuse
As required by public health authorities
Telehealth Privacy
All telehealth sessions are conducted through SimplePractice, a HIPAA-compliant platform that encrypts all communications. To protect your privacy during telehealth sessions:
Ensure you're in a private location where others cannot hear our conversation
Use headphones if others are nearby
Close other applications on your device during sessions
Use a secure internet connection (avoid public WiFi when possible)
Your Rights
Under HIPAA, you have the right to:
Request access to your health information
Request corrections to your health information
Request restrictions on how your information is used
Request confidential communications
File a complaint about privacy practices
Receive a copy of this privacy notice
Data Security
We maintain physical, electronic, and procedural safeguards to protect your information:
Secure, encrypted storage of all records
Password-protected systems
Regular security updates and monitoring
Limited access to authorized personnel only
Record Retention
Clinical records are maintained according to Louisiana state law and professional standards. Records are securely destroyed when no longer required by law.
Contact Information
If you have questions about this privacy policy or your rights, or if you believe your privacy rights have been violated, please contact:
Lisa LeMaster, LPC
LeMaster Counseling Services, LLC
Email: lisa@lemastercounselingservices.org
Phone: 504-208-1993
You may also file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office for Civil Rights.
Updates to This Policy
We reserve the right to update this privacy policy. Any changes will be posted on our website and will apply to information collected after the effective date of the change.
Last Updated: 7/20/25
By using our services, you acknowledge that you have read and understand this privacy policy.