How Clients’ Data Is Sold by Large Companies Without Psychotherapy Clients Realizing the Pros and Cons
In today’s digital age, the collection and sale of personal data have become a significant concern, particularly in healthcare-related sectors like psychotherapy. Many mental health apps and online therapy platforms collect sensitive information about users without their full awareness, often selling it to third-party companies. While these platforms promise convenience and accessibility, research in the Journal of Medical Internet Research highlights that many fail to disclose how they use or share clients’ data, which can lead to breaches of confidentiality and violations of privacy (Fitzgerald et al., 2021).
The sale of mental health data raises ethical and privacy concerns. For example, platforms that gather information about users’ mental health status, therapy progress, and even the topics discussed in therapy sessions may sell this data to marketers or other entities without the client’s informed consent. This is a violation of the confidentiality that is essential in psychotherapy, a principle enshrined in professional ethics and state laws like HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act).
At Brooklyn Integrative, we are committed to the highest standards of confidentiality and privacy. We follow all HIPAA regulations, ensuring that your personal and health information remains secure. Unlike many tech platforms that may profit from your sensitive data, we do not share, sell, or rent any of your data to third parties. Your confidentiality is our priority, and we take every measure to protect your information. By choosing Brooklyn Integrative, you can trust that your therapy is not only effective but also conducted in a secure, confidential environment.
Furthermore, the Journal of the American Medical Association found that the use of third-party data in health-related apps can lead to substantial risks, especially when users are unaware of how their information is being used (Lazarus et al., 2019). At Brooklyn Integrative, we ensure transparency and informed consent, allowing you to have full control over your personal information.