Privacy Policy

Agape Partners International (“API”), a Christian ministry dedicated to providing biblically-based pastoral counseling services, is committed to safeguarding the privacy and confidentiality of all individuals (“Counselees”) who engage with our counseling ministry. This Privacy Policy outlines the manner in which API collects, uses, discloses, and protects personal information in accordance with applicable laws, our Christian ethical standards, and scriptural principles of stewardship and trust.

Information We Collect

API collects personal information necessary to provide pastoral counseling services, solely with the Counselee’s express consent and for ministry purposes. Such information may include:

• Name and contact details (e.g., address, email, telephone)
• Demographic information
• Spiritual, emotional, and relational history relevant to counseling
• Session notes, homework assignments, and progress records

All information is maintained in strict confidence as a sacred trust.

Use of Information

Personal information is used exclusively for the following ministry purposes:

• Delivering biblically-based pastoral counseling services
• Scheduling and communicating regarding appointments and sessions
• Maintaining secure, confidential records essential to the counseling process
• Enhancing the effectiveness of our ministry through internal review
• Complying with legal obligations or ministerial referrals

Information Sharing and Disclosure

API does not disclose personal information to third parties without express written consent, except as strictly required:

• By law, court order, or governmental mandate
• To prevent imminent harm to the Counselee or others, consistent with biblical mandates to protect life
• For referrals to licensed professionals (e.g., physicians, psychologists), with prior consent where feasible

De-identified, aggregated data may be used solely for internal ministry training, research, or statistical purposes to advance God’s kingdom.

Data Security

API implements reasonable physical, technical, and administrative safeguards to protect personal information from unauthorized access, use, or disclosure. As stewards of confidential information, we treat all records with the utmost diligence, recognizing our accountability before God.

Data Retention

Personal information is retained only as long as necessary to fulfill the purposes outlined herein or as required by law. Records are securely destroyed or anonymized upon completion of counseling or upon the Counselee’s written request, subject to legal retention requirements.

Your Rights and Responsibilities

Counselees may request access to, correction of, or deletion of their personal information, subject to legal and ministerial considerations. Consent to collect and process information may be withdrawn at any time, provided it does not impair ongoing pastoral care or legal obligations. Counselees are encouraged to discuss any concerns prayerfully with their assigned Counselor.

Amendments to This Policy

API reserves the right to update this Privacy Policy to reflect changes in ministry practices, legal requirements, or enhanced protections. Revised policies will be posted prominently and effective upon notice. Counselees are encouraged to review periodically.

Contact Information

For questions, concerns, or requests regarding this Privacy Policy or your personal information, please send us a message through our contact page.