Informed Consent & Privacy Policy

Welcome. Choosing to seek therapy is a significant step toward personal growth. This document outlines how our professional relationship will function, the measures taken to protect your privacy, and what you can expect from the therapeutic process.

1. The Therapeutic Process

Therapy is a collaborative, contractual agreement. While it offers a supportive environment to clarify your goals and identify patterns, it can also involve emotional discomfort as we navigate difficult memories or feelings.

  • Commitment: I will provide support and professional insight, but the outcome depends largely on your engagement.

  • No Guarantees: There are no "miracle cures," and I cannot guarantee specific changes in behavior or circumstances.

2. Confidentiality & Privacy

Your privacy is my highest priority. All communications and materials related to your treatment are held in strict confidence and protected by psychotherapist-patient privilege. Information will not be shared without your express written consent, with the following legal and ethical exceptions:

  • Risk of Harm: If you threaten or attempt suicide, or if there is a substantial risk of serious bodily harm to yourself or others.

  • Abuse/Neglect: If there is reasonable suspicion of physical, emotional, or sexual abuse or neglect involving children (under 18) or the elderly.

  • Legal Proceedings: If a court of law issues a legitimate subpoena or if therapy is court-ordered.

  • Professional Consultation: I may occasionally consult with other professionals to provide you with the best care. In these instances, your identity remains anonymous.

Incidental Encounters: To protect your privacy, if we see each other in public, I will not acknowledge you first. If you choose to greet me, I will respond briefly but will not engage in therapy-related discussion outside the office.

3. Telehealth & Digital Security

To provide convenient and accessible care, we utilize telehealth services. This introduces specific considerations:

  • Security: We use HIPAA-compliant, encrypted platforms to minimize risks. You are responsible for ensuring a secure internet connection and a private location on your end.

  • Technical Risks: While rare, technical glitches or privacy breaches can occur. We will discuss a backup plan (such as a phone call) should technology fail.

4. Social Media Policy

As an LPC Associate in Texas, I adhere to the ACA Code of Ethics regarding professional boundaries:

  • No Social Interaction: To protect your confidentiality, I do not accept "friend" or "follow" requests from current or former clients.

  • No Direct Messaging: Social media is not a secure platform for therapeutic communication or crisis intervention. Please use my secure email or phone line.

  • Public Interaction: My professional social media pages are for educational purposes only. Interactions on these pages are public and could compromise your privacy.

5. Data Privacy & HIPAA Compliance

My commitment to your privacy begins the moment you contact me.

  • First Contact: Any Protected Health Information (PHI) shared during an initial inquiry (via form, phone, or email) is handled with the same security protocols as a formal patient record.

  • Relationship Status: An initial inquiry or consultation does not constitute a formal professional relationship. A formal contract will be executed if we decide to move forward together.