Professional Disclosure Statement
Philosophy & Approach:
My work with clients is determined by the problem brought to therapy, beginning where you find yourself – cognitively, emotionally, physically or spiritually. The outcome of your therapy depends greatly on your willingness to actively participate in the therapeutic process. My work with children, adolescents and parents offers a moment to slow down and spend time looking at the story from a different perspective and to develop new accessible skills which allows for a pause where choices become available. My approach focuses on improving relationships with one’s self and others. Whether you are interested in addressing particular events or wanting to continue ongoing healing work, I provide a safe and encouraging space.
Experience, Education, Training:
I am a Oregon Licensed Professional Counselor and have completed my Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from George Fox University. My course work and training have centered on a cognitive-behavioral approach and have included work in the areas of therapy with children and adolescents with behavioral concerns, families and individuals, ADHD, sensory processing/disturbance disorders, as well as play therapy work with children and parents. I have received training in group counseling, human development, human sexuality and cultural competencies. Prior to receiving my formal education in counseling, I worked in community mental health settings, residential treatment, and acute hospitalization care.
I draw heavily on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) which is a research-supported treatment that focuses on patterns of thinking that might be amplifying one’s distress. CBT is a common form of treatment that centers around investigating the relationship between thoughts, feelings and behaviors. It is based on the idea that a person’s mood is directly related to his or her thought patterns and is intended to help clients to recognize negative or inaccurate thoughts and replace them with healthier, more productive ways of thinking. CBT can support individuals who are experiencing anxiety, depression, anger, ADHD and high-risk behavioral concerns. It can also be helpful for anyone who would benefit from learning how to better manage life’s stressful situations in a healthier way.
Online Therapy:
It is my expectation that you will benefit from online therapy as all or part of your psychotherapy, but there is no guarantee. Therapy is conducted using interactive audio and/or video. Online based services as care may not be appropriate for your need. If I assess that face to face is more appropriate, I will offer an appointment or provide referrals. Please read and sign the Consent to Treat for Online Counseling.
Professional Fees:
Payment for services is expected at time of service. Fees are as follows: $175.00 per 45 minute sessions, and $200.00 for 60 minute sessions, parent training sessions, and provider trainings. I accept credit/debit, cash, check, health saving accounts. I am currently unable to bill insurance, but offer a few sliding scale fee slots in instances in which financial hardship makes access to services difficult. Please note: I require cancellation at least 24 hours prior to your scheduled appointment time. If I do not hear from you prior to our scheduled time and you do not attend the appointment, the session fee will be charged to you for the time held.
Referrals:
It is my hope that our work together will be beneficial and that our therapeutic relationship will be strong. I believe that developing a strong working relationship involves finding a “good fit.” If at any time you believe that we are not a good fit I welcome your feedback and, if necessary, I will happily offer referrals to other professionals with whom you may feel a better connection. Similarly, if I believe that your need or concern is beyond the scope of my training or experience I may refer you to another professional who will be able to more fully address your needs.
Social media, texting, meeting outside of the office:
In accordance with the ethical codes of the American Association of Licensed Professional Counselors, I do not accept or initiate friend requests with clients on social media (including but not limited to Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, etc). I can send and receive text messages through a confidential phone number but ask that you not send sensitive personal information in texts messages as I cannot guarantee confidentiality. If we should run into each other in a public setting, I will not approach you, though you may feel free to say hello if you wish.
Emergencies:
In an emergency, you may contact the Metro Crisis hotline at 503.988.4888, call 911 or go to the nearest hospital emergency room.
Confidentiality:
All counseling/therapy is confidential within the exceptions provided by law. These exceptions are specified in the Bill of Rights Ethical Guidelines: As a licensee with the state of Oregon, I am committed to abide by the Code of Ethics established by the Oregon Board of Licensed Professional Counselors as well as receive individual and group consultation as needed. I am also a member of the American Counseling Association (ACA), the American Mental Health Counseling Association (AMHCA) and the Association of Play Therapy (APT).
All counseling/therapy is confidential within the exceptions provided by law. These exceptions are specified in the Bill of Rights
Client’s Bill of Rights:
As a client of a licensed professional counselor in the State of Oregon, you have the following rights, as established by The Oregon State Board of Licensed Professional Counselors and Therapists (OAR 833-60-001). 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.
To expect that a licensee has met the minimal qualifications of training and experience required by state law; To examine public records maintained by the Board and to have the Board confirm credentials of an intern; To obtain a copy of the Codes of Ethics; To report complaints to the Board; To be informed of the cost of professional services before receiving the services;
To be assured of privacy and confidentiality while receiving services as defined by rule and law, including the following exceptions;
Reporting suspected child abuse.
Reporting imminent danger to client or others.
Reporting information required in court proceedings or by client’s insurance company, or other relevant agencies.
Providing discreet information concerning case consultation/supervision.
Defending claims brought by the client against the licensee/associate.
To be free from being the object of discrimination on the basis of race, religion, gender, or other unlawful category while receiving services.
You may contact the Board of Licensed Professional Counselors and Therapists at the following address and phone number.