Who we are
Valor Vet Counseling | Trauma-Informed. Client-Focused. Mission-Driven. Our website address is: https://valorvetcounseling.com. At Valor Vet Counseling, your privacy is more than a policy—it is a professional and ethical responsibility. As a trauma-informed mental health practice, we are committed to maintaining the highest standards of confidentiality and data protection for all clients, both in-person and via telehealth.
Confidentiality Standards
All services provided through Valor Vet Counseling are protected under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), the Texas Health and Safety Code (§ 611.002), and the Texas Social Work Licensing Board regulations. Communications between clients and clinicians are confidential and cannot be disclosed without written consent, except under legally defined circumstances such as:
Risk of harm to self or others
Suspected abuse or neglect of a child, elderly person, or vulnerable adult
A valid court order requiring disclosure
We take these exceptions seriously and will always discuss them with you whenever possible and appropriate.
Telehealth Privacy
Telehealth sessions are conducted through secure, HIPAA-compliant platforms to ensure your personal health information is protected. We recommend accessing sessions from a private, quiet location whenever possible to preserve your confidentiality. No sessions are recorded without your explicit written consent, and any documentation or communication is stored securely in compliance with state and federal law.
Client Records and Data Protection
Client records are maintained in encrypted, password-protected electronic health systems. Only authorized personnel have access to your file, and we do not share personal health information with outside parties unless required by law or approved by you through a signed Release of Information (ROI).
You have the right to access, review, and request corrections to your clinical records. You may also request a copy of your records or ask that they be shared with another provider. All such requests must be made in writing.
Your Rights Under Texas Law
Under Texas Health and Safety Code § 611.004, you have the right to:
- Receive a copy of your mental health records, with limited exceptions
- Request corrections to your records
- Be informed if and when any information is shared with another entity
- Revoke authorization for release of information at any time (unless already acted upon)
How long we retain your data
In accordance with Texas Administrative Code Title 22, Part 34, Rule §781.410, Valor Vet Counseling retains client records for a minimum of seven (7) years from the date of the last session. For clients who were minors at the time of service, records are retained until the client reaches age 21 or for seven (7) years following the last session—whichever period is longer.
These records include session notes, treatment plans, assessments, and any communications or documentation related to your care. After the legally required retention period, records may be securely destroyed in a manner that maintains client confidentiality.
If you request a copy of your records or ask for them to be transferred to another provider, a written request will be required. We will notify you if your records are approaching the end of the retention period.
Contact for Concerns or Questions
If you have any questions regarding your privacy, rights, or the confidentiality of your records, please contact us directly. We are committed to transparency, respect, and client empowerment at every stage of the therapeutic process.