Practice Policies

In order to answer questions that are frequently asked by clients regarding confidentiality and services, I’ve developed these practice policy statements for your information. 

Fee Policy

My fee is $175.00

per clinical hour for therapy sessions. A clinical hour is 50 minutes. I request that cancellations be made 24 hours in advance; otherwise, you will be billed in full for the session. Payment is due at the time of service.  The credit card on file will be billed if payment is not given at time of service or due to late cancellation or missed appointment.

Confidentiality

Professional ethics and Tennessee State law indicate that the client controls confidential information.  This means that, as a general rule, information shared in session with a counselor will be held in confidence. There are three exceptions to this general rule. In the case of an emergency where the counselor believes the client is at risk of hurting himself/herself or another person, the counselor may breach the requirement of confidentiality. Secondly, Tennessee state law requires that child or elder abuse in any form be reported to the Department of Human Services or another authority, such as a juvenile judge. Thirdly, if I am subpoenaed for court, I may be required to disclose some confidential information.

Professional Services

I am available for counseling appointments at selected times throughout the week. I check messages throughout the day and make every attempt to return calls within 24 - 48 hours. If you are experiencing an emergency, you may obtain assistance by calling 911, the Crisis Help Line at (615) 244-7444, or by going to your local hospital emergency room. 

Benefits and Risks of Counseling

Persons contemplating counseling should realize they might make significant changes in their lives.  People often modify their emotions, attitudes, and behaviors. They may also make changes in their marriages or significant relationships, such as parents, friends, children, relatives, etc. While I will assist clients in effecting change, I cannot guarantee a specific outcome. Clients are ultimately responsible for their own growth.

Professional Boundaries

If we see each other outside of therapy, I will not acknowledge our relationship unless you do so first. This is to protect your confidentiality and safety.

Credentials

I hold a Masters degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Trevecca Nazarene University and am licensed by the state of Tennessee as Marriage and Family Therapist.

Secrets Policy

It is my policy when working with couples to utilize my discretion about individual confidential information disclosed in individual sessions.  While I will not disclose confidential information, I reserve the right to halt or terminate couple therapy in the event of the disclosure of information that I feel would interfere with effective couple treatment. 

Termination

Termination may occur at any time by client or therapist.  If a higher level of care is needed or therapy is required outside my scope of practice, I will give you referrals.  It is your responsibility to contact referrals and seek further care.  If you do not communicate with me in a 60-day period, I will close your file.  I’m happy to reopen your file if you contact me after 60 days under policies current at that time.