Still Waters Professional Counseling Services, Inc. SMS/Text Messaging Privacy Policy – Still Waters Professional Counseling Services, Inc.

Last Updated: 12/02/2025

Still Waters Professional Counseling Services, Inc. (“Still Waters,” “we,” “our,” or “us”) is committed to protecting your privacy. This SMS/Text Messaging Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, and safeguard information when you choose to receive SMS/text messages from us, including appointment reminders, scheduling updates, follow-ups, and other service-related communications.

By opting in, you acknowledge and agree to the terms of this policy.
Message and data rates may apply.
Receiving SMS/text messages is not required to receive services from Still Waters.

1. How You Opt In

You may opt in to receive text messages from Still Waters by doing any of the following:

Providing your mobile number during intake or registration
Checking the SMS/Text Messaging consent box on agency forms or patient portals
Verbally requesting to receive text messages during scheduling
Texting an enrollment keyword to our designated SMS number (when applicable)

By opting in through any of these methods, you consent to receive SMS/text communications from Still Waters.

2. Message Frequency

Message frequency varies depending on your services, appointments, and communication needs.
You will typically receive at least 10 messages per month, and additional messages may be sent when necessary for scheduling or service-related updates.

3. Information We Collect

When you enroll in SMS/text messaging, we may collect:

Your mobile phone number
SMS message content (limited to non-sensitive information)
Delivery and interaction data, such as timestamps, carrier details, and delivery confirmations
Opt-in and opt-out records

We do not collect or store unnecessary personal information through SMS.

4. How We Use Your Information

Still Waters uses your mobile number and SMS interaction data solely to support service delivery, including:

Appointment reminders and confirmations
Scheduling changes or instructions
Follow-up messages
Outreach related to care coordination
Administrative notices such as office closures or provider changes
Non-clinical communication that supports your treatment plan

We do not send clinical notes, diagnoses, or other Protected Health Information (PHI) via SMS unless you have provided specific written consent.

We never sell, rent, or share SMS data with third parties for marketing.

5. Your Consent & Your Rights

By providing your mobile number, you confirm that:

You are the authorized user of the number provided
You consent to receive SMS/text messages from Still Waters
Message and data rates may apply
You may revoke consent at any time by opting out

Receiving SMS messages is not a condition of receiving care or participating in services.

6. How to Opt Out

You may stop receiving SMS/text messages at any time by:

Replying “STOP” to any text message
Calling our office at (706) 955-9224
Emailing referrals@stillcorp.com

After opting out, you will no longer receive SMS/text messages unless you re-enroll.

7. How to Get Help

If you need assistance with our text messaging program:

Reply “HELP” to any message,
or
Contact our office at (706) 955-9224

8. Security & Limitations of SMS

Still Waters uses secure, HIPAA-aligned systems for SMS delivery; however, SMS technology has inherent privacy limitations.

Therefore:

We do not send sensitive or confidential information via SMS
We limit SMS content to administrative and appointment-related purposes
We cannot guarantee the security of messages once delivered to your device or cellular carrier

9. Text Messaging to Minors

For individuals under 18, Still Waters only sends SMS/text messages with parent or guardian consent, and messages are limited to scheduling or administrative content.
Clinical or therapeutic topics are never sent by SMS to minors.

10. Third-Party Messaging Providers

We may use approved SMS service partners (other carrier-registered vendors) to send messages. These providers:

Act on our behalf
Must protect SMS data under federal and state privacy laws
Are prohibited from selling or distributing your information

11. Data Retention

We retain SMS/text communication logs only as long as necessary to:

Deliver the messaging service
Support clinical and administrative documentation
Meet regulatory or legal requirements

Messages are not retained longer than required by applicable law.

12. Emergency Disclaimer

SMS/text messaging should never be used for emergencies.
Still Waters does not monitor SMS communications 24/7.

If you are experiencing a medical or mental health emergency:

Call 911, or
Call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

13. HIPAA, Confidentiality & Compliance

Still Waters complies with all applicable laws and regulations, including:

HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act)
Georgia mental health confidentiality laws
TCPA (Telephone Consumer Protection Act)
CTIA messaging guidelines
The Campaign Registry requirements

14. Changes to This Policy

We may update this policy periodically. The “Last Updated” date will reflect the most recent version. Continued use of SMS/text services after changes indicates acceptance of the revised policy.

15. Contact Us

If you have questions or concerns about this SMS Privacy Policy, please contact:

Still Waters Professional Counseling Services, Inc.
Augusta Office: 3711 Executive Center Dr. Augusta, GA 30907- (706) 955-9224
Macon Office: 640 Plum St. Suite 202, Macon, GA 31201
Phone (706) 955-9224
Email: admin@stillcorp.com
Website: www.stillcorp.com