Please note that this page is in the process of being updated.

Opt-out/Opt-in to Phone Contact

If you are not a current client and choose to contact me via phone, please specify whether you would like me to return your call, whether I have your permission to leave a voicemail, and whether I have permission to send you a text message. If you do not specify that I have such permission, I will give you a phone call, but if you do not answer the call, I will not leave a message or text you, in order to protect your privacy. If you do give consent to be contacted by these means, you may withdraw it at any time.

If you are a current client, you will have completed my informed consent and will have chosen whether I have permission to text or leave voicemails. Texting in my practice is mainly to resolve scheduling issues. The only time you will receive a text from me that is not a reply to a text you send to me first is if you are late to a session and I am checking to see if you are having tech issues with logging onto telehealth, or to ask about a schedule change. You can withdraw consent to texting at any time by letting me know verbally in session, through text, voicemail/phone call, or email.

I use a HIPAA-compliant platform to send my texts and voicemails and I am the only entity to have access to my phone account. However, since I cannot guarantee privacy on your end, I always advise being thoughtful about what information you choose to send via phone or text.

Please note that I do not always have immediate access to my phone, so please reach out to emergency services if you are experiencing a mental health emergency or other type of urgent situation.

Message and data rates may apply based on your mobile carrier’s terms.

I am not responsible for any charges, errors, or delays in SMS delivery or undelivered messages caused by your carrier or third-party service providers.

Privacy Policy

Effective Date: 1/1/2025

Denise Buckingham, LICSW (“I,” “me,” “my”) respects your privacy and am committed to protecting your personal information. This Privacy Policy explains how Denise Buckingham, LICSW collects and uses information about you [when you opt-in to receive SMS messages from us].

Information We Collect

When you opt-in to receive SMS messages, I collect:

·        Your phone number

·        Consent to send SMS messages

·        Your email address

·        Your basic contact information

How I Collect Your Information

I may collect your information directly from you, such as when you complete a form or contact me; automatically, such as when you interact with my website; or from others, such as when I receive information about you from third parties.

How I Use Your Information

I use your information to:

·        Send you the SMS messages you’ve opted in to receive

·        To operate my business (including checking with you about scheduling changes, reminding you of appointments, etc.)

·Disclosures of Your Information

I may disclose your information to our affiliated companies; to third party service providers, business advisors, or consultants who provide services to me; in connection with a merger, acquisition, reorganization, restructuring, financing transaction, or sale of assets; as required by law or administrative order; to assert claims or rights or to defend against claims; and in case of emergency (such as if you experience a medical emergency in session and I need to connect you with emergency personnel or Crisis Services). I always strive to disclose the minimum information necessary, and your information is never sold, and is never provided in any way unless necessary for basic business functions or to ensure your safety.

Protection of Information

 I take steps to protect your information against unauthorized use or disclosure.

 Updates

I may periodically update this privacy policy. If I make material changes that have a substantive and adverse impact on your privacy, I will provide notice on this website before the change becomes effective. I encourage you to periodically review this page for the latest information about my privacy practices.

How to Contact Me

You can reach me by texting the word 413-650-2230 or by emailing denisebuckinghamlicsw@gmail.com.

Other Information

I do not share your personal information, phone number, or SMS consent opt-in data with third parties or affiliates for marketing or promotional purposes.