top of page

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.

​

SMS Terms & Conditions

Product Description

BestLife Counseling Services LLC (“BestLife Counseling”) uses SMS (text messaging) to communicate with clients and staff regarding:

  • Appointment reminders

  • Intake paperwork reminders

  • Scheduling notifications

  • Service-related updates

  • Operational notifications for staff
     

By providing your mobile phone number during the intake process or through a signed employment agreement, you consent to receive service-related SMS messages from BestLife Counseling. Consent to receive SMS messages is not a condition of receiving treatment or services.
 

Message Frequency

Message frequency varies based on appointments, scheduling needs, and operational requirements. Clients may receive recurring appointment-related messages. Staff may receive recurring operational notifications.
 

Message and Data Rates

Message and data rates may apply depending on your mobile carrier and plan. BestLife Counseling is not responsible for any messaging or data charges incurred.
 

Opting Out

You may opt out of receiving SMS messages at any time by replying STOP to any message you receive from us.

After you send STOP, you will receive a confirmation message, and we will cease sending SMS messages to your number unless you provide renewed consent.
 

Help and Support

If you need assistance or have questions regarding SMS communications, reply HELP to any message or contact us at:

BestLife Counseling Services LLC
Phone: (609) 486-2003
Email: info@bestlifenj.com
Website: https://www.bestlifenj.com
 

Privacy Policy

Your mobile phone number and related personal information will be handled in accordance with our Privacy Policy, available at:

https://www.bestlifenj.com/privacy
 

No mobile information will be shared with third parties or affiliates for marketing or promotional purposes.

All categories above exclude text messaging originator opt-in data and consent. This information will not be shared with any third parties.
 

Program Modifications

BestLife Counseling reserves the right to modify or discontinue SMS communications at any time. Updates to these SMS Terms & Conditions will be posted on this page.

bottom of page