The Logic: This is where you talk about the "First Contact" rule.
The Content: "You have rights before you even become a 'client.' Confidentiality doesn't begin at our first session; it begins the moment you reach out. I use encrypted forms and secure channels because I believe your 'Pre-Client' phase is just as sacred as your 'Active-Client' phase."

PRIVACY POLICY

Autonomy over Algorithms.

Why I Choose to Be Out-of-Network: Protecting Your Story

One of the most common questions I receive is: "Do you take insurance?" The short answer is no. While I am currently a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, which legally restricts me from being paneled with many insurance companies, my choice to remain "out-of-network" is primarily a philosophical and ethical one.

Even seasoned therapists with 20 years of experience are increasingly opting out of the insurance system. Here is why I have joined them in "unlinking" private counseling from the insurance "monster."

1. Your Diagnosis is Permanent

To get a claim paid, insurance companies require a DSM-5 mental health diagnosis. This diagnosis becomes a permanent part of your medical record. While this may seem like a formality, it can have long-term implications for life insurance, certain security clearances, or future healthcare premiums. I believe you should have the right to seek help without being "labeled" by a system that prioritizes codes over people.

2. They Own Your Records

When you use insurance, the company has the legal right to audit your clinical records at any time. This means non-clinical staff—accountants and data processors—can read the intimate details of our sessions to determine if your care is "medically necessary." I believe the only people who should have access to your story are you and your counselor.

3. They Dictate Your Healing

Insurance companies often operate on a "medical model," meaning they want symptoms "fixed" in a specific number of sessions. But healing from narcissistic systems, neurodivergent burnout, or deep-seated trauma doesn't follow a corporate timeline. By opting out, we ensure that you and I decide when you are finished—not an algorithm or a claims adjuster.

4. Protecting Your Data from "Big Tech"

In 2026, we are seeing more clearly than ever how health data is farmed and brokered. By keeping your payment and records independent of major insurance databases and government-linked agencies, I am adding a vital layer of "digital armor" around your identity.

"Stop Feeding the Monster"

I realize that for many, insurance is the only way they feel they can afford care. It saddens me deeply that our system has made mental health a luxury. However, I believe that if we continue to feed a system that devalues privacy and demands "sickness" for payment, the monster will eventually devour the very idea of a safe, private therapeutic space.

I am part of a growing movement of therapists who are opting out to provide a better way.

My Commitment to Accessibility

Because I don't spend 10+ hours a week fighting with insurance companies for reimbursement, I can dedicate that time back to my clients. To help bridge the gap for those who cannot pay a full out-of-pocket fee, I offer:

Sliding Scale Slots: Adjusted fees based on financial need.
Pro Bono Work: A limited number of spots for those in extreme circumstances.
Superbills: If you have PPO insurance, I can provide you with a "Superbill" that you can submit for potential out-of-network reimbursement (though the privacy risks mentioned above still apply).

My goal is to provide therapy that is high-integrity, high-privacy, and focused entirely on your autonomy.

Fees

Transparent Pricing & The "Community" Scale

Because I have opted out of the insurance system to protect your privacy and autonomy, I am committed to keeping my rates sustainable and transparent. I believe high-quality, specialized therapy should be accessible to those who need it most.

Standard Session Fee: $85

This is my maximum hourly rate for individual sessions. By keeping my overhead low and my process independent of insurance middle-men, I can offer this rate to the community while maintaining the highest level of care and privacy.

The Sliding Scale Agreement: $35 – $50

I reserve a limited number of slots for clients experiencing significant financial hardship.

How it works: We will collaboratively sign a Sliding Scale Agreement that fits your current budget.
The Check-In: We review this agreement every six months. This isn't an "audit"—it’s a conversation to see if your life circumstances have changed and to ensure the rate remains sustainable for both of us.

Specialized & Administrative Fees

While our standard therapeutic work falls under the rates above, certain administrative or legal tasks require separate fee structures:

Legal & Court Interactions: Any requests for testimony, court appearances, or legal consultation are billed at a specialized hourly rate (details provided in your intake paperwork).
Advanced Assessments: In-depth or specialized clinical assessments beyond standard treatment planning.
Records Requests: A flat administrative fee for the processing and secure delivery of clinical records.

My "No Surprises" Promise

I value your trust above all else.

Advance Notice: You will always be given significant advance notice before any general price changes take effect.
Superbills: Upon request, I provide "Superbills" (detailed receipts) that you can submit to your PPO insurance for potential out-of-network reimbursement.
Open Dialogue: If your financial situation changes, my door is open to discuss how we can keep your healing on track.

Big Tech vs. Private Practice (The "BetterHelp" Problem)

Your data is not a product.

The Logic: This button addresses the lawsuits (like the Meta/Facebook/BetterHelp scandals) regarding data-mining.
The Content: You can explain that while platforms like BetterHelp were built as data-farms first and therapy clinics second, your practice uses a curated, HIPAA-compliant stack. You acknowledge that while no system is perfect (mentioning the 2026 industry scrutiny of tracking pixels), you chose Simple Practice and Squarespace because their business models rely on therapist subscriptions, not selling client data.
The "Ready to Quit" Promise: Explicitly state: "If these platforms ever compromise my clinical standards or your safety, I am ready to move the entire practice to paper and pencil. I work for you, not the software."

AI Disclosure (2026 Texas Compliance)

The Vibe: Human-led, Tech-assisted.

The Logic: Under Texas HB 149 and SB 1188 (the 2026 AI Governance Acts), you are legally and ethically required to disclose AI usage.
The Content: Explain that you use AI tools (like Simple Practice’s "Smart Notes") to help with the heavy lifting of documentation and treatment planning. This allows you to spend more time looking at the client and less time looking at a keyboard.
The Opt-Out: "I use AI as a tool for efficiency, never as a replacement for clinical judgment. If you prefer a 100% 'Analog' experience, you can opt out of AI-assisted note-taking with one click. No questions asked.

COMPLIANCE

Mandatory Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council (TBHEC) notice and a link to the Texas Jurisprudence standards.

Licensing Concerns

If you have licensing concerns, contact the Texas Behavioral Health Board. See the Texas Code here, or call (512) 305-7700 for inquiries.

Request Your Records

Need your records? We keep them for 7 years or 5 years after a client turns 18. Requests can be made online. Charges may apply.

Consumer Rights

If you suspect fraudulent business practices, contact the Texas Attorney General to file a complaint. Learn more about your rights here.

I realize this is a lot of 'tech talk' for a counseling site. But for my clients—many of whom are survivors of systems where their information was used as a weapon—knowing exactly how their data is handled is the first step in building a Therapeutic Alliance based on actual trust, not just a promise.

Wholeheart Counseling, PLLC

123 Example Road
New York, NY 12345

kacy@wholeheart-counseling.com
(940) 290-7052

Professional Disclosure

Kacy Latham, M.A., NCC, LPC Associate(Texas License #96122).
I am currently under the clinical supervision of Dr. Tara Fox, Ph.D., LPC, LPC-S

To File a Complaint: Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council 1801 Congress Ave., Ste. 7.300 | Austin, Texas 78701 Phone: (512) 305-7700 | Investigations/Complaints: (800) 821-3205 Website: www.bhec.texas.gov

Hours

Monday – Friday
10am – 6pm

* Privacy Policy (HIPAA)

Terms of Service / Practice Policies
Good Faith Estimate Notice
Texas BHEC Complaint Information

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