Important Info

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Terms defined: psychotherapy is a general term for treatments that attempt to improve or resolve psychological problems; counseling also is a general term for a more problem-focused short-term approach to problem resolution, personal growth and behavioral modification.

I work to support each client’s unique situation, which may, at times, include working with a couple or family. I also offer group therapy to teach skills and to work together in processing challenging situations.

Benefits from treatment vary, but generally, clients report an improved ability to cope with interpersonal relationships; finding solution to specific problems and a significant reduction in feelings of distress and an improved sense of emotional stability. Therapy is an individual journey and no guarantees can be made on how you may experience it, typically, it will require that efforts be made to change existing patterns of behavior, both in and outside the office. At times, changing behaviors is associated with mild to significant emotional discomfort, especially, as you take steps toward personal growth and change.

Confidentiality

Under Colorado law, Statute 12.43.214(1)(d) CRS, states that information provided to a clinical social worker by a client during therapy is legally confidential except as provided in section 12.43.218 and except for certain legal exceptions. These exceptions are as follows:

– If I have reasonable cause to know or suspect that a child or at risk adult has been or is being subjected to abuse or neglect, the law requires that I contact the appropriate government agency.
– If a client communicates a serious threat of imminent physical violence against a specific person, or persons, or toward a specific location, I must make an effort to notify such persons or location; and/or notify an appropriate law enforcement agency; and/or take other appropriate action including seeking hospitalization for the client.
– If a client threatens to harm themselves, I may be obligated to seek hospitalization for him or her, and/or to contact family members or others who can assist in providing safety.

In all of these situations, some client information may need to be revealed in order to protect the client or others involved.

There are other situations where I am permitted or required to disclose information without client consent:

– If you are involved in a court proceeding and a request is made for information concerning my professional services, such information is protected by therapist patient privilege. I cannot provide any information without either your written consent unless I am court ordered to do so.
– If a client files a lawsuit against me, I will disclose relevant information regarding that patient in order to defend myself.

I want you to be aware that I do employ a billing agency that assists me in filing insurance claims. The billing person has been trained in protecting your privacy and does not reveal names or other relevant information to anyone other than the companies she files claims with.

Finally, I do occasionally seek outside consultation with another mental health professional for a case. During consultation, I do not use names or any other information that could reveal the identity of a client. The other professionals are also legally bound to keep the information confidential.

client rights

During your first session, we’ll take time to see if this feels like a good fit for you and to evaluate your treatment needs. I will offer you an impressions of what our work will include, and will answer any questions you may have.The practice of both licensed psychotherapists and unlicensed psychotherapists is regulated by the Department of Regulatory Agencies under CR12.43.214 (1)(c).

Questions or complaints may be addressed to: Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies, Mental Health Licensing Section, 1560 Broadway, Suite, 880, Denver, CO 80202, (303) 894-7766.

Under statute at 12.43.214(1)(d) CRS you are entitled to inquire about my professional training and credentials as well as the forms of therapy that I practice. You are also entitled to information about methods of therapy, techniques used, the projected duration of therapy (if known) and the fee structure.

You have a right to and are encouraged to ask questions about anything that occurs in therapy.

You are also encouraged to give me feedback about your progress. You may stop therapy at any time.

In a professional relationship, sexual intimacy is inappropriate and should be reported to the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies-Mental Health Licensing Section.

Finally, the Health Information Portability Act (HIPAA) provides you with new and expanded rights.

professional fees

Therapy is provided at a rate of $140 per session (50 – 55min).

Payment is expected at the time of each visit.

There is a $25 charge for all returned checks. Also, any outstanding balance beyond 90 days may be referred to a collection agency.

– I accept private pay and will offer discounted services in special circumstances
– I offer discounted adjunct EMDR therapy

cancellations

The time that I set aside for your appointment is important to me. Once an appointment is scheduled, you will be expected to pay for that time, unless you cancel a minimum of 24 hours before your appointment, or unless you can reset the appointment for another time during the same week. This depends upon my schedule and is not always possible.

It is important to note that insurance companies do not pay for missed appointments, so you will be held responsible for the usual amount that your insurance pays as well as your copay.

CONTACTING ME / EMERGENCY PROCEDURES

During working hours, I am with clients and I am often not immediately available by telephone. However, I make every attempt to return non-emergency calls within 24 hours.

If I am unavailable and you have a circumstance that requires an immediate response, you will need to contact Colorado Crisis Support Line at (844) 493-8255 or 911 for assistance.

In regard to email and social media, the following apply:

– Due to email and text communications cannot guarantee confidentially, I do not use these to discuss questions or concerns you may have about a session. If this should arise, please call me at (720) 507-1442 and I will respond by phone.
– I do respond to emails for purposes of rescheduling or to discuss potential appointments. If you choose to email and accept email, please understand that I cannot guarantee confidentiality.
– Similarly, I do not communicate or accept “friend” requests on Facebook or LinkedIn.

resources

Colorado Crisis Services: 1-844-493-TALK (8255) or text “TALK” to 38255

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK

The Blue Bench (sexual assault support services): 303-329-9922

Parker Task Force Food Bank: 303-841-3460

Integrated Family Community Services: 303-789-0501