Privacy Policy for the Centre for Mental Health and Addictio

 Last Updated: January 5, 2025

The Centre for Mental Health and Addictions ("we," "us," or "our") is committed to protecting the privacy and security of our website visitors, clients, and partners. This Privacy Policy outlines how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard your personal information when you visit our website  (thecentres.ca).

 When you visit our website, we may collect the following types of information:

We collect personal information that you voluntarily provide when you:

• Fill out forms (e.g., appointment requests, contact forms, or program applications).
• Subscribe to our newsletters or updates.
• Contact us via email, phone, or online chat.

This information may include:

• Name
• Email address
• Phone number
• Address
• Medical or mental health information (only when voluntarily provided for appointment scheduling or service inquiries)

We may automatically collect certain technical data when you use our website, such as:

• IP address
• Browser type
• Device information
• Cookies and tracking technologies 

 We collect and use personal information for the following purposes:

• To respond to inquiries and appointment requests.
• To provide information about mental health and addiction services.
• To improve our website functionality and user experience.
• To comply with legal and regulatory requirements.

We do not sell, rent, or trade your personal information. However, we may share your information with:

• Service Providers: Third-party vendors assisting us with website maintenance, email distribution, or appointment scheduling.
• Legal Compliance: Authorities or regulators if required by law, court orders, or legal proceedings.
• Healthcare Providers: If you request a referral or service requiring collaboration with external healthcare professionals (only with your consent).

All third parties with whom we share data are required to maintain confidentiality and comply with data protection laws.

We implement reasonable security measures to protect personal information against unauthorized access, alteration, disclosure, or destruction. These measures include:

• Secure server hosting
• Encrypted data storage
• Access controls for authorized personnel

However, no method of transmission over the Internet is 100% secure, and we cannot guarantee absolute security.

We retain personal information only for as long as necessary to fulfill the purposes outlined in this policy or as required by applicable laws and healthcare regulations. 

Our website may use cookies and similar tracking technologies to enhance user experience. These may include:

• Essential Cookies: Necessary for website functionality.
• Analytics Cookies: To analyze website traffic and improve services.
• Marketing Cookies: For personalized advertising (if applicable).

Users can manage cookie preferences through their browser settings.

Depending on your location, you may have rights regarding your personal information, including:

• Access & Correction: Request access to your personal data and correct inaccuracies.
• Deletion: Request deletion of personal data, subject to legal requirements.
• Opt-Out: Unsubscribe from newsletters or marketing communications.

To exercise these rights, contact us at info@thecentres.ca.

We are committed to protecting the confidentiality of individuals seeking mental health and addiction services. 

We do not collect or store sensitive medical data through our website unless explicitly provided by users for service requests.

If you are in crisis or require urgent support, please contact emergency services (911) or a crisis helpline in your area.

Alberta Mental Health Help Line: 1 (877) 303-2642

Alberta Addictions Helpline: 1 (866) 332-2322

Distress Centre (Calgary and area): (403) 266-4357

Distress Line (Edmonton and area): (780) 482-4357 

Our website may contain links to external websites. We are not responsible for the privacy practices of third-party sites and encourage users to review their privacy policies. 

We may update this Privacy Policy periodically to reflect changes in laws or practices. Any updates will be posted on this page with the revised effective date. 

 For any questions or concerns about this Privacy Policy, please contact us at:

Centre for Mental Health and Addictions
403.679.3055
info@thecentres.ca

By using our website (thecentres.ca), you agree to the terms outlined in this Privacy Policy.