Client Record Retention and Deletion Policy
Record Retention
Bridges Therapy and Wellness Center retains adult client records for at least five (5) years after the last date of service, or longer when required by applicable Virginia or federal law. For minor clients, records are retained for at least five (5) years after the minor reaches age 18, or longer when required by applicable Virginia or federal law. The required retention period may vary by clinician license and date of termination.
Client records include clinical records, treatment records, psychological evaluation records, psychological testing records, test results, and raw test data, whether maintained in paper or electronic form.
Secure Deletion of Records
After the applicable retention period has expired, and when no legal or other requirement requires continued retention:
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Paper clinical and testing records, including raw data, are securely shredded and disposed of.
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Electronic testing records and other electronic copies containing client information are securely deleted.
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Clinical records maintained in TherapyNotes® are securely deleted electronically.
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All records are maintained and deleted in a manner that protects confidentiality.
Questions About This Policy
Questions about this policy or your records may be directed to Bridges Therapy and Wellness Center.
Virginia Regulatory References
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18 VAC 125-20-150 — Psychology
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18 VAC 85-20-26 — Medicine
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18 VAC 115-20-130 — Professional Counseling
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18 VAC 115-50-110 — Marriage and Family Therapy
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18 VAC 140-20-150 — Social Work
Revised 10.10.26
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