Privacy Policy

Michelle Smit Therapy ("Practice," "we," "us," or "our") respects your privacy and is committed to protecting your personal information. This Privacy Policy describes how we collect, use, store, and protect information when you interact with our website and therapy services (collectively, the "Services").

Information We Collect and How We Use It

We collect information that you voluntarily provide to us when you contact us, book an appointment, or engage in therapy services. This information may include your name, email address, phone number, and any information you share during the consultation or booking process.

For therapy services, additional clinical information may be collected as part of your treatment. This information is subject to patient-therapist confidentiality and is handled in accordance with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) ethical guidelines and the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA).

Our website may automatically collect limited technical information such as browser type, device details, and IP address for analytics purposes.

Information we collect may be used for purposes such as:

• Scheduling and managing appointments
• Providing therapy services
• Processing medical aid claims
• Responding to inquiries and communications
• Complying with legal and professional obligations

Confidentiality and Professional Ethics

As a registered counselling psychologist, I am bound by the HPCSA ethical rules regarding patient confidentiality. Information shared during therapy sessions is confidential and will not be disclosed without your written consent, except where required by law or where there is a risk of harm to yourself or others.

Sharing, Retention, and Security of Information

We do not sell your personal information. We may share information with medical aids for claims processing (with your consent) or with third-party service providers who assist with practice operations, such as appointment scheduling or secure video platforms for online therapy.

Clinical records are retained in accordance with HPCSA guidelines and applicable laws. We take reasonable measures to protect information from unauthorized access, use, or disclosure.

Your Rights Under POPIA

Under the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA), you have the right to request access to your personal information, request correction of inaccurate information, and request deletion of your information (subject to legal and professional retention requirements).

Updates and Contact Information

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. Any changes will be reflected by updating the "Last updated" date at the top of this page.

If you have any questions about this Privacy Policy or your personal information, please contact us at:

Michelle Smit Therapy
Email: therapy@michellesmit.com
Address: Bloemendal Clinic, Paarl, Western Cape, 7670