INFORMED CONSENT FOR PSYCHOLOGICAL SERVICES
1. INTRODUCTION This document is designed to inform you about the psychological services provided by Mellow Wellness (“MELLOW”), specifically regarding Telehealth (Virtual counseling), and to obtain your consent for psychotherapy. Please read it carefully.
2. NATURE OF SERVICES Psychological services are provided to assist you with personal growth and mental health concerns. Psychotherapy is a collaborative process. Success depends on your active participation and willingness to explore difficult topics.
3. VIRTUAL COUNSELING Mellow Wellness strongly recommends keeping your video on to facilitate the therapeutic alliance. You are responsible for ensuring a stable internet connection, functional equipment, and a private room. If technical issues interrupt the session, your therapist will attempt to reconnect; If a stable connection is not restored within 10 minutes, the Therapist will email you to reschedule the session. Please check your email if a disconnection occurs.
- Confidentiality: While HIPAA-compliant technology is used, no internet transmission is 100% secure. There is a risk that data could be intercepted. By signing this, you acknowledge this risk.
- Emergency Protocol: Since session is remote, you agree to provide your current physical address and an emergency contact person. In the event of a mental health crisis or emergency, therapist may need to contact local emergency services to ensure your safety.
4. CONFIDENTIALITY AND LIMITS All information disclosed in psychotherapy is confidential and will not be revealed to anyone without your written consent. However, there are legal exceptions where your psychotherapist is mandated to break confidentiality:
- If there is a risk of imminent harm to others or yourself (suicide/self-harm).
- Suspected abuse or neglect of children.
- If a court of law orders the release of records.
5. ATTENDANCE & DEPOSIT Individual therapy session are between 50 and 60 minutes in duration. Session frequency can vary over the psychotherapy period, depending on the specific therapy goal and the progression of psychotherapy. If a session extends beyond the scheduled duration, additional fees will apply.
Deposit & Cancellation Policy: To secure your appointment, an $80 deposit is required. You must notify Mellow at least one business day in advance to cancel or reschedule, or your deposit will be non-refundable (including "no-shows"). For example, for appointments on Saturday, Sunday, or Monday, you must provide notice by 6 p.m. (EST) on the preceding Friday.
6. FINANCIAL AGREEMENT & PAYMENT Session fees range from $140 to $210 per hour depending on the assigned therapist. Payment is due at the end of each appointment via Stripe or Interac e-Transfer (EMT). A receipt will be provided for your records and insurance submission. You acknowledge that outstanding fees must be settled before booking future psychotherapy.