Privacy Statement

Confidentiality (Are we going to tell anyone what you say?)

When you use the chats, phone or web counseling services at this site, the things you write about or talk to us about are always private and confidential (meaning we don’t share them with anyone outside the agency or program), except in the following situations.

• If you tell us you are being abused or hurt by someone you know.
• If you tell us you are seriously considering suicide.
• If you tell us that you plan to hurt or have already hurt someone else.

In these situations, we are required by law to inform authorities, such as the Department of Social Services. We have to do this because we are concerned about your safety and well-being. The counselor will explain confidentially rules to you and ask you for identifying information (such as your name, address, age, etc.). Telling us about these situations is important, because we want to help you and those you care about stay safe and healthy.

Security (Technology used to protect your privacy)

Our technology protects who you are, what you are saying and where you are. Some of the security features include are:

• No additional software, plug-ins needed to be installed by your computer.
• All chat communication is encrypted between your computer and our servers.
• Chat sessions are not logged or stored.

Chat Rooms
Here are a few other guidelines for chatting:

• Every chat will be moderated by a counselor from the Kids Helpline. The counselor’s role is to facilitate the discussion and keep it flowing.
• Users are encouraged to respond to the topic, other’s comments or questions, or to ask questions on the topic. Remember that all users are free to respond, as well as the counselor.
• We will also have “guest counselors” who will be experts in the weekly topic. These guests may be staff or volunteers of the Kids Helpline or from other community agencies who work with kids and teens.
• Appropriate language must be used at all times. If the counselor or facilitator feels that any inappropriate remarks are made, you will be blocked from using the chat room immediately and will be unable to log in for future chats. Again, everyone has a right to participate in a safe and healthy way.
• Remember that we are not all speed typers, it might take a few minutes from another user or the counselor to respond. Please post questions or comments one at a time, and be sure to refer to the user you are replying to. The facilitator’s role is to keep order in the chat room and make sure everyone has a chance to participate.
• Finally, if you need assistance immediately, please utilize the Kids' Helpline phone instead of the chats, as a counselor on the phone can provide one-on-one assistance to you. Call us 24 hours a day at 716-834-1144 or toll free at 1(877)KIDS-400.

Thank you for your interest and participation. If you have ideas for future chats, email us today at info@kidscrisis.com. We will get back to you and let you know if we will be able to schedule a chat on your suggested topic.