Therapists and Cybersecurity: How to Protect Client Data in a Post-Breach World
In today’s digital world, cybersecurity isn’t optional—it’s essential, especially for mental health professionals. After the Change Healthcare cyberattack in early 2024—one of the largest healthcare data breaches in U.S. history—many therapists were left wondering: Am I doing enough to protect my clients’ information?
The truth is, most of us didn’t go to grad school to become IT experts. But as private practice owners and HIPAA-covered entities, we are responsible for safeguarding sensitive client data. The good news? You don’t need to be a cybersecurity genius to make your practice more secure. A few smart, intentional steps can significantly reduce your risk.
Why Cybersecurity Matters More Than Ever
The Change Healthcare breach exposed the records of potentially millions of patients and providers, disrupting practices nationwide and creating massive financial and legal headaches. For therapists, this was a wake-up call: even if you’re a solo practitioner or small group, you’re still a target.
Your electronic health records (EHR), emails, billing systems, and cloud storage all contain protected health information (PHI). If that data is compromised, it’s not just inconvenient—it’s a HIPAA violation with serious consequences.
Practical Steps to Improve Your Cybersecurity as a Therapist
1. Use a HIPAA-Compliant EHR System
This should be non-negotiable. Make sure your EHR:
Encrypts data in transit and at rest
Offers two-factor authentication (2FA)
Provides a signed Business Associate Agreement (BAA)
Not all EHRs are created equal—always double-check compliance. (My recommendation is Sessions Health EHR - secure, with tons of integrated features, like insurance billing, Telehealth, and payment processing.)
2. Secure Your Devices and Networks
Your laptop, phone, and Wi-Fi network are often the weakest links. Protect them by:
Using strong, unique passwords (and a password manager)
Enabling full-disk encryption (like FileVault for Mac or BitLocker for PC)
Avoiding public Wi-Fi unless you’re using a VPN
Keeping devices updated with the latest security patches
3. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) Everywhere You Can
Whether it’s your EHR, email, or cloud storage—2FA adds an extra layer of protection by requiring a second step to log in, like a code sent to your phone. It can be annoying, but those few extra seconds mean a lot to your and your clients’ security.
4. Back Up Your Data Regularly
Use encrypted, HIPAA-compliant backups to protect against data loss from hardware failure, ransomware, or human error. Cloud-based backups are convenient, but make sure the provider offers a BAA. While most reputable EHRs typically implement a range of safeguards and backups, it never hurts to periodically back up your client records for your own storage.
5. Train Your Staff (and Yourself)
Most breaches happen due to human error—like clicking a phishing email. Make sure you and any staff or contractors:
Know how to recognize suspicious links or attachments
Never share passwords
Understand basic HIPAA security protocols
Even a one-hour training once a year can prevent costly mistakes. Pro tip: Familiarize yourself with common scams that target therapists.
6. Get Cyber Liability Insurance
Regular liability or malpractice insurance usually won’t cover a data breach. Cyber liability insurance can help cover the cost of:
Legal fees
Client notifications
Fines
Credit monitoring
It’s an added expense—but could save your business in the long run.
7. Conduct a Risk Assessment
HIPAA requires you to periodically assess risks to client data. This doesn’t have to be complicated. Look at:
Where client data is stored
Who has access
What could go wrong
What safeguards are in place
Document your findings and create an action plan. This shows you’re making a “good faith effort” to stay compliant.
You Don’t Have to Do It Alone
Cybersecurity can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to figure it all out solo. If you’re a therapist in private practice and you’re unsure where to start, I offer consultation services to help you get your systems secure and compliant—without the tech headache.
Protecting your clients protects your business. Let’s build a safer, more confident practice together.
👉 Schedule a private practice consultation here.
Related Articles: Common Scams That Target Therapists—And How to Avoid Them
HIPAA Compliance in a Digital World: What Therapists Need to Know
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