Informed Consent for Treatment
As a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Pastoral Counselor, my area of training is the systemic treatment of individuals, couples, and families including sensitivity to your religious beliefs and faith perspective. The systemic approach to therapy takes into consideration all immediate family members in family therapy session. I, along with you, will decide which family members (if any) need to be included into therapy. The outcome of therapy is usually better for you, the client, if various goals are established together, after the initial assessment period.
Therapy naturally involves activities such as identifying emotions and revealing secrets. There may be risks associated with your disclosures to other family members or other family member's disclosures during the course of therapy, as well as exploration of issues. Decisions to disclose will be made by you except where mandated by law. It is expected that some uneasiness or painful emotions may occur, as you are involved in therapy. Discussing painful issues will naturally create discomfort. Your participation in therapy is essential towards helping you address your concerns. The Board of Examiners for the Licensure of Professional Counselors, Marriage and Family Therapists and Psychoeducational Specialist requires that clients be informed that all forms of dual relationships such as business ventures and sexual intimacy are prohibited.
Please be aware that there is a higher incidence of divorce if only one partner in a relationship is involved in therapy. It is also important that you understand there is no guarantee all of your concerns/issues/problems, etc. will be successfully resolved. I cannot guarantee outcomes. The outcomes may vary from your expectations. You may discontinue participation in therapy at any time, but please inform your therapist when you wish to discontinue. If at any time you are not satisfied with the course of the therapy, please discuss this concern with your therapist. Therapy is about you and at Pathways Pastoral Counseling we want you to be very satisfied with the outcome of your therapeutic experience.
Confidentiality:
Confidentiality is the foundation for counseling and therapy. Developing trust and confidence in those who listen and help you is paramount to a successful therapeutic experience. Shared personal information is strictly confidential and will not be revealed unless you, or a parent in the case of a child less than 18 years old, give specific written authorization to release information. Please note the Notice of Privacy Practices that is in the waiting area. Copies are available for request.
Exceptions to Confidentiality (Duty to Warn):
Although shared personal information is confidential there are exceptions to these confidences such as: (1) Suicidal threats or attempts. (2) To prevent a clear and immediate danger to another person. (3) Suspected child abuse or neglect. (4) Suspected abuse or neglect of a vulnerable adult. (5) If it is determined that you are in need of hospitalization. (6) Or otherwise mandated or allowed by law or ethical codes for which I am responsible.
If you have any questions or wish to find out further information not contained here, feel free to call my office number at 864-542-3019 or email at: Pathwayspc@AOL.com