Privacy Policy & Notice of Privacy Practices
Melissa Foster, LCC, DBA Fostering Fortitude
Effective Date: January 1, 2023
Last Updated: November 17, 2025
Online Privacy Policy Agreement
Melissa Foster, LCC, DBA Fostering Fortitude ("Fostering Fortitude," "we," "us," or "our") values your privacy. This Privacy Policy ("Policy") explains how we collect, use, protect, and disclose information obtained through our website and online services. This Policy is designed to meet and exceed applicable privacy standards and to clearly communicate our practices to users and clients.
We reserve the right to update or modify this Policy at any time. Changes will be posted on this page, and continued use of our website after changes are made constitutes acceptance of those changes. If we intend to use personally identifiable information in a materially different way than originally stated, we will notify users by email and provide the option to consent to such use.
This Policy applies solely to Melissa Foster, LCC, DBA Fostering Fortitude, and governs all data collection and usage through our website. By using our website, you consent to the data practices described in this Policy.
This Policy does not apply to third-party websites or services that we do not own, operate, or control. We encourage you to review the privacy policies of any external websites you visit.
This Policy Explains:
1. What personally identifiable information we collect;
2. Why we collect it and the legal basis for collection;
3. How we use and share information;
4. Your choices regarding your data; and
5. The safeguards we use to protect your information.
Information We Collect
You may choose whether to provide personal information. If you decline, certain services may not be available to you.
We may collect:
Voluntarily provided information, including name, address, email address, phone number, billing and payment information, when you inquire about or purchase services.
Non-personal information, such as browser type, IP address, operating system, and anonymous demographic data, used to improve website performance and services.
We collect only information you knowingly provide through forms, emails, surveys, or scheduling systems, and we use it only for its intended purpose as described in this Policy.
Why We Collect Information and How Long We Keep It
We collect information to:
* Provide and manage requested services;
* Improve services and website functionality;
* Communicate with you about services, scheduling, or administrative matters;
* Send promotional or educational content with your consent;
* Conduct surveys or research with your consent.
Information is retained only as long as necessary based on relevance, legal and regulatory requirements, professional standards, contractual obligations, and legitimate business interests.
Use of Information
We do not sell, rent, or lease personal information.
Information may be used to:
* Operate and maintain our website;
* Deliver services;
* Communicate regarding services, updates, or offerings;
* Request feedback or participation in surveys.
Disclosure of Information
We may disclose information:
* To provide requested services;
* With your consent;
* In aggregated or de-identified form;
* As required by law, subpoena, or court order;
* To auditors or consultants bound by confidentiality;
* To enforce terms or protect rights, property, and safety.
Non-Marketing Communications
We may contact you for non-marketing purposes such as security notices, administrative updates, or service-related communications.
Children Under 13
Our website is not intended for children under 13. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 13. If such information is discovered, it will be promptly deleted or parental consent will be obtained as required by law.
Opt-Out and Unsubscribe
You may opt out of email communications at any time by following unsubscribe instructions or contacting us directly. Opting out of third-party communications must be done through those providers.
Links to Other Websites
Our website may include links to other websites. We are not responsible for the privacy practices of those websites. This Policy applies only to information collected by our website.
Notice to European Union Users
Our operations are based in the United States. If you provide information, it will be transferred to and processed in the U.S. By using our website, you consent to this transfer and processing.
Security
We take reasonable precautions to protect your information. Sensitive data is encrypted during transmission, and access is restricted to authorized individuals only. While no system is completely secure, we take appropriate steps to safeguard information.Acceptance of Terms
By using this website, you accept this Privacy Policy. Continued use following updates indicates acceptance of those changes.
HIPAA Notice of Privacy Practices
THIS NOTICE DESCRIBES HOW MENTAL HEALTH AND MEDICAL INFORMATION ABOUT YOU MAY BE USED AND DISCLOSED AND HOW YOU CAN ACCESS THIS INFORMATION. PLEASE REVIEW IT CAREFULLY.
Uses and Disclosures for Treatment, Payment, and Health Care Operations
Melissa Foster, LCC, DBA Fostering Fortitude may use or disclose Protected Health Information (PHI) for treatment, payment, and health care operations as permitted by law. Only the minimum necessary information will be disclosed.
Treatment: Coordination and management of your care.
Payment: Billing, reimbursement, and eligibility determinations.
Health Care Operations: Quality improvement, audits, administrative services, and case management.
Uses and Disclosures Requiring Authorization
Authorization is required for uses or disclosures outside treatment, payment, and health care operations, including marketing, sale of PHI, and psychotherapy notes. Authorizations may be revoked in writing, except where already relied upon.
Uses and Disclosures Without Consent or Authorization
PHI may be disclosed without consent as required by law, including situations involving:
* Risk of serious harm;
* Abuse or neglect reporting;
* Legal proceedings;
* Public health and safety;
* Workers’ compensation;
* Law enforcement and national security.
Patient Rights
You have the right to:
* Request restrictions;
* Receive confidential communications;
* Inspect and obtain copies of records;
* Request amendments;
* Receive an accounting of disclosures;
* Obtain a paper copy of this notice;
* Be notified of breaches of unsecured PHI.
Duties
We are required by law to protect PHI, provide this notice, and follow its terms. We may revise this notice and will make updated versions available.
Complaints
You may file a complaint with us or with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. There will be no retaliation for filing a complaint.
Contact Information
Melissa Foster, LCC, DBA Fostering Fortitude*
555 Metro Pl N, Suite 560
Dublin, Ohio 43015
If you have questions about this Privacy Policy or Notice of Privacy Practices, please contact us directly.