Office Policy and Procedure
Missed or Canceled Appointments
Due to the nature of our services, we do not overbook appointments. We require a minimum of 24-hour notice for cancellations. If an appointment is not canceled at least 24 hours in advance, the full session fee will be charged. If you arrive more than 15 minutes late for your scheduled appointment, you may be required to reschedule, and the full session fee will still apply. These fees are due immediately.
Please note that repeated missed appointments without prior notice may result in discontinuation of services. In cases of inclement weather, as determined by the local school district, the cancellation fee may be waived. To request a fee waiver, you must notify our office before your scheduled session. Since time is reserved specifically for you, arriving late may result in a shorter session.
Ending Services & Transition Planning
Ending a professional relationship can be a significant process, and it is important to allow time for proper closure. The length of this process will vary depending on the duration and intensity of your time in care. Services may be discontinued after appropriate discussion if it is determined that continued sessions are not effective or if there is a failure to meet financial obligations. This decision will not be made without prior conversation to explore the reasons for discontinuation.
If services are discontinued or if you request a different provider, a list of qualified professionals will be provided as referral options. You may also seek services from a provider of your choice. If no appointment is scheduled for three consecutive weeks without prior arrangement, the professional relationship may be considered inactive, and services will be discontinued in accordance with legal and ethical guidelines.
In the event of incapacitation, death, or closure of our practice, client records will remain on file, and a new provider will be made available. If you choose to transfer care to an outside provider, a signed release of records will be required, and a standard summary of records, including the initial intake and most recent progress notes, will be provided to the new provider in accordance with standard policy.
Minors & Privacy
For clients between the ages of 12 and 18, parents may have the legal right to access records unless the minor objects and there are compelling reasons to deny access. However, parents are always entitled to general information regarding their child’s current condition, diagnosis, treatment needs, and services provided. When possible, discussions will be held with the minor prior to releasing any information to address concerns and objections.
Changes to This Notice
We reserve the right to modify the terms of this notice, and any changes will apply to all existing records. The updated notice will be available upon request, in our office, and on our website.