Privacy Policy

General Information

The therapeutic relationship is unique in that it is a highly personal and at the same time, a contractual agreement. Please read and indicate that you have reviewed this information and agree to it by signing at the end of this document.

The Therapeutic Process

You have taken a very positive step by deciding to seek therapy. The outcome of your treatment depends largely on your willingness to engage in this process, which may, at times, result in considerable discomfort. Remembering unpleasant events and becoming aware of feelings attached to those events can bring on strong feelings. There are no miracle cures. I cannot promise that your behavior or circumstance will change. I can promise to support you and do my very best to understand you and repeating patterns, as well as to help you clarify what it is that you want for yourself.

Office Policy

Counseling sessions are 45-50 minutes length. Please arrive on time for your appointment, if you are late you will only have the remaining time of your scheduled appointment. If you need to cancel an appointment I ask that you provide appropriate notice whenever possible, knowing missed appointments or cancelations with less than 24 hours may be charged full session fee. Payment of $205 per session is due at the time of appointment unless otherwise agreed upon.

Confidentiality

The session content and all relevant materials to treatment will be held confidential unless the client requests in writing to have all or portions of such content released to a specifically named person/persons. Limitations of such client held privilege of confidentiality exist and are itemized below:

1. If a client threatens or attempts to commit suicide or otherwise conducts him/her self in a manner in which there is a substantial risk of incurring serious bodily harm.

2. If a client threatens grave bodily harm or death to another person.

3. If the therapist has a reasonable suspicion that a client or other named victim is the perpetrator, observer of, or actual victim of physical, emotional or sexual abuse of children under the age of 18 years.

4. Suspicions as stated above in the case of an elderly person who may be subjected to these abuses.

5. Suspected neglect of the parties named in items #3 and # 4.

6. If a court of law issues a legitimate subpoena for information stated on the subpoena.

7. If a client is in therapy or being treated by order of a court of law, or if information is obtained for the purpose of rendering can expert’s report to an attorney.

Occasionally I may need to consult with other professionals in their areas of expertise in order to provide the best treatment for you. Information about you may be shared in this context without using your name.

Please know that no forms of communication (meaning email, phone, text) outside of face to face are truly secure and confidential. Signing this document tells me that I have your permission to text appointment reminders, links or resources. If you email or text me I will respond to acknowledge receipt of information but I will only discuss confidential information face to face or through HIPAA compliant Teletherapy platform.

If we see each other accidentally outside of the therapy office, I will not acknowledge you first. Your right to privacy and confidentiality is of the utmost importance to me, and I do not wish to jeopardize your privacy. However, if you acknowledge me first, I will be more than happy to speak briefly with you, however it is inappropriate to have any lengthy discussions in public or outside of the therapy office.