Privacy Policy & Consent Terms

CONFIDENTIALITY STATEMENT:

All communication with NEAP, including telephone, email, messaging, text and webcam platforms are considered private and confidential. Any and all communication is considered Protected Health Information (PHI). No identifying information will never be given to anyone without your written consent. This includes requests for information from your family members, your physician or even the court. The HIPPA law is followed closely. You can therefore be assured that all communication between yourself and NEAP is secure. The law provides a few exceptions about confidentiality. We are required to report any instance of authentic threat of death to self or others, or harm to an identified child or other vulnerable person, under the mandatory reporting clause. If we feel a need to report, we will discuss this with you directly and let you know that we have communicated a reportable action.

For more information about your rights under HIPPA, please click on the following link: http://www.hhs.gov/ocr/privacy/index.html

Under federal law, you have the right to request a copy of any records related to you treatment.

ELECTRONIC BASED SERVICES STATEMENT:

We will take every measure to keep your Protected Health Information private. Information will never be forwarded to a third party without your written request and agreement. The use of technology to assist inn counseling makes it possible for clients to access expert care anytime, anywhere. However, clients must be aware of the risks. Please take steps to safeguard the information on your device; understand that it may be breached by a family member, and protect your privacy during therapist/client interactions. Communications can be intercepted, circulated and forwarded if you do not safeguard your information. Be sure not to send your PHI to unintended recipients. By signing the electronic consent form, your consent for services, you agree to hold harmless NEAP and its employees against losses and damages arising from technical failure. Also, you understand that the services are being provided in the therapist's State of Licensure. Michigan is the point of service (POS) for NEAP.

TERMINATION OF SERVICES:

You can terminate your services with NEAP at any time and without explanation. All restrictions regarding your PHI remains in effect.

HOW DOES IT ALL WORK?

As you begin services, a member of the NEAP team will connect with you to see which services would suit your clinical needs. Here is an explanation of the types of online or virtual services currently being prioritized:

Telehealth Sessions are conducted via telephone in real time. You must set up an appointment time. At your scheduled time the clinician will call the number you provide and your session starts. If you are not available during your pre-scheduled time, your clinician will continue to try to reach you for 15 minutes.

Web Based Behavioral Health-Online Sessions via Video Technology required: Internet Connection and Web Cam Some clients will prefer to meet 'face-to-face' via video in real time. Video/Web Cam sessions are by appointment only. Sessions will be scheduled for 60 minutes. In order to provide the most secure clinical services, sessions through an encrypted, user friendly platform called Doxy.me. This platform is HIPAA compliant and has protections in place to make sure your session stays private.

Face-to-Face Appointments: Depending on availability of space and safety of the counselor and client, face-to-face sessions are an option in some cases. Telehealth is prioritized for health and safety of counselors and clients at this time and until further notice.
NEAP looks to offer mobile, internet-based service, reaching clients in rural areas that otherwise cannot find the needed specialized care. In addition, clients that are having difficulty accessing clinicians due to schedule, weather, transportation, or childcare obstacles will find these barriers removed by connecting online. NEAP maintains an office on Marquette, MI.

EMERGENCIES:

NEAP cannot respond to a health or mental health emergency. You will need to call 911 or go to your nearest Emergency Department. NEAP does not provide a Crisis Line.