Client Information Sheet
Welcome
Thank you for choosing Brianne Havens, student therapist under the supervision of Dr. John Watterson, Ph.D., at Parkstone Mental Health, LLC. Counseling is a major decision and you may have many questions. This document will provide you with information on policies, laws, and your legal rights as the client.
Services Offered
Talk-therapy is typically most appropriate for those seeking individual and couples therapy. Individual therapy consists of one fifty minute session. At times, couples therapy can consist of one ninety minute session. Therapy is usually offered once a week or as greed upon collaboratively by the therapist and client. Initially, information is gathered about various aspects of the client(s) difficulty, which may include extensive personal history. The therapist and client(s) will engage in a unique approach to treatment that caters to individual goals and therapeutic preferences. An assessment or analysis will be made, and solutions are genera ted and implemented by the client. Progress depends on many factors which include motivation, client effort, and other circumstances such as interventions with family, friends, and other associates. Ultimately, counseling is a joint effort between the counselor and client, the results of which cannot be guaranteed. The greatest risk of counseling is that it may not, by itself, resolve problems or concern. Possible side effects of psychotherapy may include: periodic emotional distress or internal confus ion, or stress due to making life changes that could be upsetting to yourself or others. Therefore, the therapist and client will assess treatment progress and outcomes during each session. Alternative treatment options include (but may not be limited to): pharmacotherapy, support groups, and self help reading. Alternative treatments may be discussed at any time during therapy. Appointments are scheduled in advance and the client must attend at least 75% of scheduled sessions. If the client(s) cannot attend a session, the client(s) will notify the therapist at least 24 hours in advance, when possible. The client will be charged for any session cancelled with less than 24 hours notice. Payment is due at the time of the session. If the client(s) are more than one session delinquent with regard to fee payment, termination or suspension of services may result. Furthermore, all clients are free to discontinue treatment at any time, although this decision is best done in consultation with your treatment provider(s).
Confidentiality
Please note that everything stated in the counseling relationship is confidential, unless a client states there is a danger or serious threat to themselves or others. The therapist is required by law to report this information to keep threatened individuals safe. In addition, legally, the therapist must report physical and sexual abuse, neglect, and exploitation of children and the elderly. The profession also requires case notes and treatment plans. This is documentation about the counseling session. If the law subpoenas the client(s) file, the therapist may have to submit it to the court. Supervision or consultation of the client(s) case may also be needed. Please know your therapist will take every precaution to ensure and protect the client(s) privacy.
Final Note
The client(s) understand that the therapist is a student completing a graduate degree and under the supervision of Dr. John Watterson, Ph.D. The client(s) understand that consulting with Dr. Watterson is always an option. If you need to reach your therapist, please do so by leaving a confidential voicemail at 512.554.8183. If you are in crisis and need immediate assistance, please call the 24-hour crisis hotline at 472.HELP (4357).
I have read and received a copy of this Client Information Sheet, which includes a description of client rights and responsibilities. I have also received a copy for my records.
________________________ Client’s Signature
__________ Date
__________________________ Therapist’s Signature
__________ Date