Terms & Conditions

Informed Consent for Psychotherapy 

 

General Information 

The therapeutic relationship is unique in that it is a highly personal and at the same time, a contractual agreement. Given this, it is important for us to reach a clear understanding about how our relationship will work, and what each of us can expect. This consent will provide a clear framework for our work together. Feel free to discuss any of this with your clinician.

 

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 of anger, depression, anxiety, etc. There are no miracle cures. We cannot promise that your behavior or circumstance will change. We 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. 

 

Confidentiality 

The session content and all relevant materials to the client’s 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.

 

Billing

Payment is due at the time of services rendered. If insurance is being billed for the services, the client is responsible for any additional payment that is not covered under the insurance plan. Debit and credit cards are the only form of payment accepted. BestLife Counseling does not accept cash or check payments at this time.

 

Cancellation

There will be a $50 cancellation fee for any appointments that are not canceled within 24 hours. After 3 cancellations, your clinician has the right to terminate services.

 

Occasionally your clinician 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. 

 

If we see each other accidentally outside of the therapy office, your clinician 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 your clinician first, they will be more than happy to speak briefly with you, but feel it appropriate not to engage in any lengthy discussions in public or outside of the therapy office.