Empowerment Therapy Group (“ETG,” “we,” “our,” or “us”) is committed to protecting your privacy and ensuring the ethical handling of your personal information. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, protect, and share your information when you visit our website or engage with our services. By using this website, you agree to the practices described below.

​

1. Information We Collect

We collect the following categories of information:

​

Personal Information

Name, email address, phone number, and any details you voluntarily submit through scheduling, forms, or direct contact.

​

Health Information (Therapy Clients)

For therapy clients, we collect Protected Health Information (PHI) necessary for intake, assessment, treatment, and communication. PHI is stored and managed in HIPAA-compliant platforms. PHI is never used for marketing purposes.

​

Coaching Information

Coaching services are offered independently by a non-clinical provider. These sessions may involve goal-setting, lifestyle discussions, or personal reflections. Coaching records are not clinical, are not governed by HIPAA, and are not stored within ETG’s therapy systems. Coaching is not a substitute for therapy or mental health treatment.

​

Website & Usage Data

Our site may collect non-identifiable data such as:

• IP address

• Device/browser type

• Pages visited

• Time spent on site

​

This information helps us improve the experience and performance of our website.
 

Communication Preferences

If you opt into SMS or email updates, we store your preferences to provide appointment reminders, content, or important service notifications.

 

2. How We Use Your Information

Your information may be used to:

• Respond to inquiries and schedule consultations

• Deliver therapy services

• Manage scheduling, payments, and reminders

• Improve website experience and design

• Maintain compliance with ethical, legal, and professional standards

​

We do not sell or rent your information.

 

3. Sharing Your Information

We only share your data when necessary and in accordance with legal and ethical obligations:

• With your written consent: (e.g., referrals or coordinated care)

• With third-party service providers: (e.g., schedulers, telehealth platforms, analytics, or payment processors)

• As required by law: (e.g., subpoenas, court orders, or mandated reporting)

• In emergencies: If there is an immediate risk of harm to yourself or others, we may disclose necessary information to ensure safety.

​

Note: Mobile numbers are never shared, sold, or used for third-party marketing.

 

4. SMS/Text Messaging Policy

If you opt in to receive SMS messages:

• You may receive appointment reminders or limited communication

• You can opt out anytime by replying STOP

• Message and data rates may apply depending on your carrier

 

5. Data Security

We take data protection seriously and use:

• Encrypted systems

• Password-protected and role-based access

• HIPAA-compliant platforms for therapy clients

• Secure, administrative, physical, and technical safeguards

​

No system is 100% secure. We ask clients to avoid sending sensitive health information via regular email or unencrypted channels.

 

6. Coaching vs. Therapy (Important Distinction)

• Therapy is provided only by licensed clinicians and includes the diagnosis and treatment of mental health conditions. Therapy is available only to clients physically located in Alabama.

• Coaching is non-clinical and focuses on goal-setting, clarity, and personal growth. It does not involve diagnosis, treatment, or mental health care.

​

Coaching is not a substitute for therapy. If you are experiencing a mental health concern, please consult a licensed provider.

 

7. Insurance Information

ETG does not bill insurance directly. If you wish to use insurance, we will help you access services through a third-party platform that manages verification and claims.
 

Please note:

• ETG is not responsible for billing errors or the denial of coverage

• Data submitted to third-party platforms is subject to their privacy policies

​

8. Your Rights

Depending on the services you receive, you may have the right to:

• Request access to your personal or clinical records

• Request correction of inaccurate data

• Withdraw consent for communication at any time

• Request information about how your data is stored or used

​

To exercise your rights, email us at:
info@etgtherapy.com

​

9. Data Retention

We retain therapy records for a minimum of 7 years, in accordance with state and federal law. Coaching-related information may be deleted earlier at the discretion of the coaching provider. When no longer needed, data is securely archived or deleted.

 

10. Children’s Privacy

This website is not directed to children under the age of 13. We do not knowingly collect or store personal data from children under 13 on this site.

 

11. Cookies & Tracking Technologies

We may use cookies and analytics tools (e.g., Google Analytics) to monitor website usage and improve functionality.

You may disable cookies via your browser settings, although some site features may be limited as a result.

 

12. Accessibility Statement

We are committed to digital accessibility for all users, including those with visual, auditory, cognitive, or motor impairments. If you experience difficulty accessing content on our website, please contact us so we can assist or provide information in an alternative format.

 

13. Third-Party Links

Our website may contain links to third-party websites. We are not responsible for the privacy practices or content of external sites. Please review their policies independently before engaging.

 

14. Crisis & Emergency Services

Empowerment Therapy Group is not a crisis center. We do not offer emergency, on-call, or after-hours services.

If you are in crisis, please call the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988, or dial your local emergency number.

 

15. Updates to This Privacy Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy periodically to reflect changes in services, laws, or best practices. All changes will be posted on this page, and continued use of our site indicates acceptance of these updates.

 

16. Contact Us

For privacy concerns, questions, or requests, contact:
Empowerment Therapy Group

info@etgtherapy.com
Alabama, USA