I. Privacy Policy

1. Introduction

Vasudhaiva Institute LLC (“we,” “our,” or “us”) respects your privacy. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard your information when you visit this therapy website (the “Site”). Your use of the Site indicates your consent to the terms of this policy.

2. Information We Collect

• Voluntarily Provided Personal Information
  Such as your name, contact details, and information submitted via contact forms, emails, or appointment requests.

• Non-Personal Data via Analytics Tools
  Anonymized website usage data collected via third-party analytics (e.g., Google Analytics).

3. How We Use Your Information

• To respond to inquiries and facilitate appointment scheduling by securely sharing necessary client information with the therapy office where your services are provided.

• We do not store or maintain your clinical records directly; all record-keeping and data storage are managed by the therapy office responsible for your care, in compliance with HIPAA and applicable laws.

• To improve website functionality.

Information Sharing

We may share your information only with therapy offices and providers directly involved in your care, including for therapy-related events or services. These entities are considered third parties and are bound by confidentiality protections.

No Marketing to Non-Therapy Services

We do not use your information to market or promote non-therapy services, including those offered on other platforms or under separate business entities operated by Shannon Chmelar.

4. Email and Electronic Communication

We use a HIPAA-compliant email system to ensure the confidentiality and security of communications related to your therapy services. However, no electronic communication method can be guaranteed 100% secure. Therefore, please avoid sending highly sensitive health information via standard email or website contact forms unless instructed otherwise.

5. Retention and Storage

Vasudhaiva Institute LLC and Shannon Chmelar do not retain or store clinical records or personal information. All clinical information is securely retained and maintained by the therapy office or company where you receive services, in compliance with HIPAA and applicable state laws (typically for 7 years). Non-clinical information collected via this website is not used for marketing purposes.

6. Third-Party Links

Links to Shannon’s other wellness and teaching sites are governed by separate privacy policies.

II. Disclaimers

1. Informational Purposes Only

Content on this Site is for general informational purposes and does not constitute therapy, diagnosis, or treatment.

2. Emergency Situations

If you are in crisis, contact emergency services immediately. This Site is not equipped for crisis intervention.

3. No Guarantee of Results

Therapy outcomes vary and cannot be guaranteed.

4. No Formation of Therapeutic Relationship Through Website

A therapist-client relationship begins only after formal intake and signed informed consent.

5. Dual Relationships and Ethical Boundaries

• Shannon offers therapy services and separate yoga/philosophy wellness offerings under different platforms.

• Dual relationships are avoided, consistent with professional ethical codes.

• Therapy clients are discouraged from participating in yoga or retreat events during the course of therapy unless it has been discussed and deemed appropriate by the therapist.

• Attendance at wellness events does not replace therapy.

6. Social Media Use and Boundaries

• Social media accounts are for public education and do not establish therapy relationships.

• Clients/followers should not DM or send personal messages; such messages may not be answered.

• Shannon does not follow therapy clients back on social media to maintain professional boundaries.

• Do not share personal health information via social media.

• Following or engaging on social media does not replace therapy or affect clinical relationships.

III. Terms and Conditions

1. Acceptance of Terms

Use of this Site constitutes agreement with these terms. If you disagree, please discontinue use.

2. Service Eligibility

Therapy services are offered only to clients in licensed states. Others may use the Site for informational purposes only.

3. Intellectual Property

All content on the Site is owned by Vasudhaiva Institute LLC and may not be used without permission.

4. No Unlawful Use

You agree not to misuse or interfere with Site operation.

5. Limitation of Liability

Vasudhaiva Institute LLC and Shannon Chmelar are not liable for damages arising from your use of this Site.

6. Changes to Terms

Terms may be updated periodically. Continued use implies acceptance of changes.