Privacy Policy

Mental Health Disclaimer

The information provided on this website is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional mental health care. Use of this website or contacting Michelle Krieger Counseling, Inc. does not establish a therapeutic relationship.

If you are in crisis, call 911 or contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

Information We Collect

Personal Information

  • Name, phone number, email address

  • Information submitted through contact forms

  • Scheduling or insurance inquiries

Automatically Collected Information

  • IP address, browser type, device data

  • Website usage patterns

Protected Health Information (PHI)

If you become a client, we collect health information necessary for treatment, payment, and healthcare operations in compliance with:

  • HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act)

  • Illinois Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities Confidentiality Act (740 ILCS 110)

How We Use Your Information

We use your information to:

  • Provide clinical services

  • Coordinate care with other providers (with consent)

  • Communicate regarding appointments and services

  • Improve website functionality

  • Meet legal and ethical obligations

How We Protect Your Information

We implement safeguards including:

  • HIPAA-compliant electronic health record systems

  • Secure storage of records

  • Limited access to confidential information

  • Encrypted platforms when applicable

Important: While we take reasonable precautions, no electronic communication is completely secure.

How We Share Your Information

We do not sell your information.

We may disclose information only:

  • With your written authorization

  • For treatment, payment, or healthcare operations

  • When required by law, including:

    • Suspected abuse or neglect

    • Court orders or subpoenas

    • Duty to warn/protect (risk of harm to self or others)

  • As required under Illinois law, including mandated reporting obligations

Cookies & Tracking Technologies

This website may use cookies to:

  • Enhance user experience

  • Analyze website traffic

You can disable cookies in your browser settings.

Your Rights

You have the right to:

  • Access and request copies of your information

  • Request corrections

  • Request limits on use/disclosure

  • Request confidential communication methods

Under Illinois law, mental health records receive heightened confidentiality protections, and disclosures often require explicit written consent.

Clients receive a separate HIPAA Notice of Privacy Practices with full details.

Links to Other Websites

We are not responsible for the privacy practices of external websites.

Changes to This Policy

We may update this policy periodically. Updates will be posted with a revised effective date.

Contact Information

Michelle Krieger Counseling, Inc.

2707 W. Washington St., Suite A

Springfield, Illinois 62702

(447) 743-1337

michelle@michellekriegercounseling.com