SMS Privacy Policy & Terms

Welcome to Beachside Mental Health Counseling, PLLC (“BMHC,” “we,” “our,” or “us”). Your privacy matters to us. This Privacy Policy explains how information may be collected, used, stored, and protected when you visit our website or communicate with our practice.

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This policy applies only to information collected through our website and online communications. It does not replace informed consent, HIPAA notices, or other clinical documentation provided to clients receiving services.

 

SMS consent is obtained during intake or scheduling processes.

 

​SMS Privacy Policy

Overview

This SMS Privacy Policy and Terms and Conditions explains how Beachside Mental Health Counseling, PLLC (“BMHC”) collects, uses, and protects information when you choose to receive text message communications from our practice. This policy applies specifically to SMS communications and should be read alongside our general Privacy Policy.

 

SMS Communication Services

Our SMS communication services are intended solely for administrative and customer care purposes related to mental health services. Text messaging may be used to:

•       Send links to intake forms and appointment-related paperwork

•       Provide updates regarding appointment requests or scheduling

•       Send appointment reminders and confirmations

•       Share administrative or care coordination information

Please note that standard SMS/text messaging is not considered a fully secure form of communication. While the platforms we use maintain HIPAA-conscious business practices and safeguards, we request that clients do not send protected health information (PHI) through text messaging. Sensitive or clinical information will be communicated through secure systems whenever appropriate.

 

Consent to Receive Messages

You may consent to receive SMS communications from Beachside Mental Health Counseling, PLLC through:

• Providing verbal consent during a phone interaction

• Providing written authorization during intake or administrative processes

• Initiating communication with our office and requesting SMS communication

 

By providing consent, you acknowledge that:

• Message and data rates may apply

• Message frequency may vary

• Consent to receive SMS messages is not required to obtain services

• Clients may opt out at any time by replying STOP

Information We Collect

When participating in our SMS communication services, we may collect:

•       Mobile phone number

•       Name and communication preferences

•       Appointment and scheduling information

•       Administrative communication records

•       Message delivery and response information

 

 

How We Use Information

Information collected through SMS communications is used only for legitimate business and care coordination purposes, including:

•       Appointment scheduling and reminders

•       Administrative communication related to services

•       Client support and care coordination

•       Operational and compliance purposes

Mobile information will not be shared, sold, rented, or conveyed to third parties or affiliates for marketing or promotional purposes.

 

Data Storage and Security

SMS-related information may be stored within systems used by our practice, including:

•       Phone.com for SMS communication services

•       Simple Practice, Theranest, and Headway for practice management and recordkeeping

Security measures include:

•       Limited access to authorized personnel only

•       Administrative safeguards

•       Secure systems and account protections

•       Ongoing monitoring and compliance practices

 

Message Frequency and Content

Message frequency varies depending on appointment activity and care coordination needs.

SMS messages from our practice are limited to administrative and scheduling-related communications and will not include detailed clinical information whenever possible.

 

Opt-Out and Support

You may opt out of SMS communications at any time by replying STOP to any message.

For assistance, reply HELP or contact our office directly at:

•       347-343-3000

•       info@mhcounselors.com

 

You may receive a final confirmation message after opting out.

Wireless carriers are not responsible for delayed or undelivered messages.

 

Third-Party Providers

We utilize third-party communication platforms, including Phone.com, to facilitate SMS messaging services. These providers maintain industry-standard administrative and security practices designed to support healthcare-related communications.

 

Policy Updates

This SMS Privacy Policy and Terms and Conditions may be updated periodically. Updated versions will be posted on our website with the revised effective date. Continued use of SMS communications after updates constitutes acceptance of the revised policy.

 

Effective January 1, 2026

Beachside Mental Health Counseling, PLLC
www.mhcounselors.com
347-343-3000
info@mhcounselors.com