Effective Date: 1/1/2026

Affirmations and Gratitude Counseling is committed to providing ethical, compassionate, and professional mental health services. The following policies and practice standards outline how services are delivered, client rights and responsibilities, and important administrative information.

1. Practice Philosophy

Affirmations and Gratitude Counseling provides client-centered, strengths-based therapy focused on emotional well-being, personal growth, and resilience. Services are delivered with respect for each client’s unique background, values, and goals. Evidence-based approaches may include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based interventions, play-based strategies, and supportive counseling.

2. Scope of Services

Services may include, but are not limited to:

• Individual therapy

• Child and adolescent therapy

• Telehealth and in-person sessions (as available)

Services are provided within the scope of licensure and professional competence.

3. Appointments & Scheduling

• Sessions are typically 53–60 minutes in length.

• Appointments are scheduled in advance through the client portal, phone, or email.

• Clients are encouraged to arrive on time to maximize the full session.

4. Cancellations, Late Cancellations, No-Shows, and Late Arrivals

Cancellation Window
To avoid a late cancellation fee, clients must provide at least 24 hours’ notice prior to the scheduled appointment time.

Late Cancellations
Appointments canceled on the same day as the scheduled session are considered late cancellations. A $75 fee will be charged for late cancellations unless prohibited by insurance or waived at the clinician’s discretion due to an emergency.

No-Shows
A no-show occurs when a client misses their scheduled appointment without any prior notice. The full session fee will be charged for no-show appointments.

Late Arrival
Clients who are running late are encouraged to call or text their therapist as soon as possible. A 10-minute grace period is provided for late arrivals. If a client arrives more than 15 minutes late, the session will be marked as a no-show, and the no-show fee will apply. Session time cannot be extended to accommodate late arrivals.

5. Fees & Payment

• Fees are due at the time of service unless prior arrangements have been made.

• Accepted payment methods include credit/debit card and other approved electronic payments.

• Clients are responsible for understanding their insurance benefits, including deductibles, copays, and coinsurance.

6. Insurance

• Affirmations and Gratitude Counseling accepts BCBS.

• Clients remain responsible for all charges not covered by insurance, including deductibles, copays, and coinsurance.

• Clients are encouraged to contact their insurance provider directly to confirm coverage and benefits.

7. Telehealth Policy

• Telehealth services are provided through a secure, HIPAA-compliant platform.

• Clients must participate from a private, confidential space free from interruptions.

• Telehealth sessions may not be conducted while driving or riding in a moving vehicle.

• Technology issues that significantly interrupt a session may require rescheduling.

8. Confidentiality

Client confidentiality is protected in accordance with state and federal laws, including HIPAA.

Confidentiality may be broken only when:

• There is risk of harm to self or others

• Abuse or neglect of a child, elder, or vulnerable adult is suspected

• Records are subpoenaed or otherwise required by law

• Written authorization is provided by the client

9. Communication Between Sessions

• Email and text communication are intended for scheduling and administrative purposes only.

• Therapeutic issues should be addressed during scheduled sessions.

• Messages are typically returned within 1–2 business days.

10. Client Responsibilities

Clients are expected to:

• Attend sessions on time

• Actively participate in the therapeutic process

• Provide accurate and complete information

• Notify the therapist of changes in contact, insurance, or emergency information

11. Therapist Responsibilities

The therapist agrees to:

• Provide ethical, competent care

• Maintain professional boundaries

• Protect client confidentiality

• Engage in ongoing professional development and supervision as required

12. Emergency & Crisis Policy

Affirmations and Gratitude Counseling does not provide crisis or emergency services.

In case of an emergency, clients should:

• Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room

• Contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (call or text 988)

13. Termination of Services

Therapy may be terminated when:

• Treatment goals have been met

• The client chooses to discontinue services

• Services are no longer clinically appropriate

• Payment or policy requirements are not met

Appropriate referrals will be provided when possible.

14. Policy Updates

Affirmations and Gratitude Counseling reserves the right to update these policies as needed. Clients will be notified of significant changes.