Below is some information new clients find helpful. More details are included in the paperwork provided to those who set up an appointment. I'm also happy to answer any questions you have.
FRAGRANCE
Since many people become ill from fragrance, please avoid using scented products on the day of your appointment. This includes perfume, cologne, essential oil, scented hair spray, hand lotion, conditioner, etc.
FEES
Fees vary based upon length of session, whether I'm working with individuals, groups, pairs (couples, friends, siblings, co-workers, parent/child) and also whether we are doing counseling/coaching or hypnotherapy. Flower essences can be discussed during our regular session and the formula is made for an additional fee.
I accept checks or cash—payable at the beginning of each session. PayPal is also available. See the fees and insurance page for more information.
INSURANCE
In order to offer reasonable rates and focus energy on clients, I have a fee-for-service practice. That means I don't bill insurance, nor provide forms to submit for reimbursement. (Even providing reimbursement forms leads to many phone calls and requests for additional documentation from insurance companies.) By not working with insurance, privacy of your records is also better protected.
Additionally, most insurance policies cover treatment only for mental illnesses. That would require me to give you a mental illness diagnosis which would follow you throughout your life. It could negatively impact current and future employment, application for other insurance coverage, legal situations and circumstances in which background checks are required.
DRUGS & ALCOHOL
Avoid alcohol and drugs before our appointments. (Physician-recommended medication is fine.) Mind and body-altering substances negatively impact the ability to be insightful and respond deeply to our work. This is especially true for hypnotherapy sessions.
CREDENTIALS
“Counselors practicing counseling for a fee must be registered or certified with the department of health for the protection of public health and safety. Registration of an individual with the department does not include a recognition of any practice standards, nor necessarily implies the effectiveness of such treatment.” WAC 246-810-031i.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate in the State of Washington (MC60163608). I've worked for over thirteen years in mental health, human resources, coaching, consulting and training.
CONFIDENTIALITY
All discussions are confidential, and information cannot be released without your written permission. If it becomes necessary to provide information to a third party, I will discuss with you the type of information to be exchanged, the purpose of the exchange and ask you to sign a release form. The law dictates several important exceptions to confidentiality. They are:
1. Any suspected child abuse or neglect, or abuse of people unable to protect themselves;
2. Instances wherein you threaten to harm yourself or other people;
3. If I receive a legitimate subpoena for your records or if your therapy is court-ordered;
4. If you are gravely disabled and unable to handle basic needs (food, clothing, shelter)
URGENT SUPPORT
If you need immediate help, contact the Crisis Clinic at 206-461-3222 or 1-800-244-5767 (open 24 hours a day, seven days a week). If you think you may hurt yourself or someone else, go to the nearest hospital emergency room or call 911.