Fees, Policies & Privacy

Your privacy and confidentiality are a top priority.

Confidentiality

The information disclosed by a patient is generally confidential and will not be released to any third party without written authorization from the patient, except where required or permitted by law. Exceptions to confidentiality, include, but are not limited to, reporting child, elder and dependent adult abuse, when a participant  makes a serious threat of violence towards a reasonably identifiable victim, or when a patient is dangerous to him/herself or the person or property of another. 

A representative (parent, relative caregiver) should be aware that the therapist is not a conduit of information from the patient. Psychotherapy can only be effective if there is a trusting and confidential relationship between a therapist and patient. Although a representative for the minor can expect to be kept up to date as to a patient’s progress in therapy, he/she will typically not be privy to detailed discussions between a therapist and patient. However, a representative can expect to be informed in the event of any serious concerns that the therapist might have regarding the safety, well being of the patient, including suicidality.

Psychotherapist-Patient Privilege

The information disclosed by a patient, as well as any records created, is subject to the psychotherapist-patient privilege. The psychotherapist-patient privilege results from the special relationship between a therapist and patient in the eyes of the law. It is akin to the attorney-client privilege or the doctor-patient privilege. Typically, the patient is the holder of the psychotherapist-patient privilege. If a therapist receives a subpoena for records, deposition testimony, or testimony in a court of law, the therapist will assert the psychotherapist-patient privilege on the patient’s behalf until instructed, in writing, to do otherwise by a person with the authority to waive the privilege on the patient’s behalf. 

When a patient is a minor child, the holder of the psychotherapist-patient privilege is either the minor, a court appointed guardian, or minor’s counsel. Parents typically do not have the authority to waive the psychotherapist-patient privilege for their minor children, unless given such authority by a court of law. 

Consent for the Treatment of a Minor Child

A therapist generally requires the consent of both parents prior to providing any services to a minor child. If any question exists regarding the authority of the parent to give consent for psychotherapy, the therapist will require that parent submit supporting legal  documentation, such as a custody order, prior to the commencement of services.

A minor patient will benefit most from psychotherapy when his/her parents, guardians or other caregivers are supportive of the therapeutic process. Psychotherapy is a process in which a therapist and patient, and sometimes other family members, discuss a myriad of issues, events, experiences and memories for the purpose of creating positive change so patient can experience his/her life more fully. It provides an opportunity to better, and more deeply understand oneself, as well as, any problems or difficulties a patient may be experiencing. Psychotherapy is a joint effort between a patient and therapist. Progress and success may vary depending upon the particular problems or issues being addressed, as well as many other factors. 

Termination of Therapy

A therapist reserves the right to terminate at his/her discretion. Reasons for termination include, but are not limited to, untimely payment of fees, failure to comply with treatment recommendations, conflicts of interest, failure to participate in therapy, if patient needs are outside of therapist’s scope of competence or practice, or patient is not making adequate progress in therapy.

A patient or representative of the patient has the right to terminate therapy at his/her discretion. Upon either party’s decision to terminate therapy, the therapist will generally recommend that the patient participate in at least one, or possibly more, termination sessions. These sessions are intended to facilitate a positive termination experience and give both parties an opportunity to reflect on thework that has been done. The therapist will also attempt to ensure a smooth transition to another therapist by offering referrals and resources.