Policies

Notice of Privacy Practices (HIPAA)

Summary for website visitors · Effective: October 2026

Protected Health Information (PHI)

As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing mental health services, I am a covered entity under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). Clinical records created during treatment are protected as PHI.

Uses and Disclosures of PHI

I may use and disclose PHI for:

• Treatment — providing, coordinating, or managing your care
• Payment — billing and insurance claims (when applicable)
• Healthcare Operations — quality improvement and practice management

Other uses and disclosures generally require your written authorization, except as permitted or required by law (for example, mandated reporting of abuse or imminent harm, court orders, or certain public health requirements).

Substance Use Disorder Records

Records relating to substance use disorder treatment are subject to additional protections under 42 CFR Part 2. I will not disclose such information without appropriate consent or as otherwise permitted by law.

Your Rights

You have the right to:

• Request access to your clinical records
• Request amendments to your records
• Request restrictions on certain uses or disclosures
• Receive an accounting of certain disclosures
• Request confidential communications
• Receive a paper copy of the full Notice of Privacy Practices

Confidentiality and Illinois Law

In addition to HIPAA, mental health records in Illinois are protected under the Illinois Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities Confidentiality Act (MHDDCA). I follow both federal and Illinois requirements regarding confidentiality and disclosure.

Mandated Reporting

As a mandated reporter in the State of Illinois, I am required by law to report suspected abuse or neglect of children, elders, or certain vulnerable adults, and situations involving imminent risk of serious harm to self or others, even without client consent when legally required.

Contact Regarding Privacy

If you have questions about this notice, wish to exercise your rights, or believe your privacy rights have been violated, please contact:

Jane M. Pinsof, LCSW
Phone: (847) 691-9721
Email: janempinsof@gmail.com

You may also file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office for Civil Rights.

Changes to This Notice

I reserve the right to change this Privacy Policy and Notice of Privacy Practices. Updated versions will be posted on this website. The effective date of the current version is October 2026.