Coaching Informed Consent
This section explains important aspects of coaching services at Sentio, including information to help you decide whether coaching is a good fit for you.
1. Nature and Purpose of Coaching
Coaching is a collaborative, goal-focused process designed to support personal growth, self-awareness, and intentional change. Coaching may help you clarify values, set goals, explore patterns, build skills, and develop strategies for navigating life challenges.
Coaching is not psychotherapy, does not involve diagnosis or treatment of mental health disorders, and is not a substitute for therapy, medical care, or crisis services. While coaching can be supportive and reflective, it is primarily focused on present-moment functioning and future-oriented goals.
Coaching can be both rewarding and challenging. At times, you may experience discomfort as you reflect on habits, beliefs, or life circumstances. You are encouraged to share openly and to pace the work in a way that feels manageable.
2. Session Frequency and Structure
Coaching sessions are typically scheduled weekly or bi-weekly, depending on your goals and mutual agreement between you and your coach. Sessions are usually 50 minutes in length unless otherwise arranged.
Coaching services are not intended to provide crisis intervention or emergency support.
3. Coaches and Supervision
Coaches at Sentio may be trained professionals who are working under the supervision of licensed mental health professionals. Supervision is used to support quality of care, professional development, and ethical practice.
4. Confidentiality and Its Limits
Information shared in coaching is treated as confidential and will not be disclosed without your written permission, except in limited circumstances required by law or safety considerations.
Confidentiality may be broken if there is a reasonable belief that:
You present a serious risk of harm to yourself or others
There is suspected child abuse, dependent adult abuse, or elder abuse
These exceptions are in place to protect safety and are consistent with applicable laws and ethical guidelines.
5. Telehealth and Technology
Coaching sessions may be conducted via secure telehealth platforms. While every effort is made to ensure a smooth experience, technology interruptions can occur. If a connection issue arises, the plan may include switching to phone or rescheduling as needed.
6. Appointments and Cancellations
Appointments are reserved specifically for you. If you need to cancel or reschedule, 24 hours’ advance notice is required. Sessions canceled with less than 24 hours’ notice may be charged the full session fee, unless there is an emergency or illness and you and your coach agree otherwise.
7. Fees and Payment
Coaching fees vary based on service type and provider. Payment is expected at the time of the session unless otherwise arranged. Coaching services are not billed to insurance, and insurance reimbursement is generally not available for coaching.
8. Data Collection and Use
Sentio may collect information as part of routine practice, including intake information, session notes, feedback, and session recordings when applicable. This information may be used for service improvement, training, program evaluation, research, and the development of new services or tools, including applications involving artificial intelligence and large language models. All data use follows applicable privacy and confidentiality standards.
9. Questions or Concerns
If you have questions or concerns about coaching services, you are encouraged to discuss them directly with your coach or contact the clinic director.