OFFICE POLICIES – Algazi Family Counseling Inc.

IMG_2432 (1)Dr. Linda Algazi, Ph.D is a clinical psychologist and family counselorDr. Linda Algazi Ph. D - Picture of her Shingle

THE COUNSELING AND THERAPY PROCESS

Psychotherapy is a collaborative adventure between you and your therapist. The results, when successful, can benefit you beyond the solution of your original concerns.

Psychotherapy takes place over time… how much time depends in part on the nature of your presenting problem.

Dr. Linda will share her assessment of your difficulty and suggest a course of action. If necessary, she will refer you to other professionals. Should you choose to continue with your program, Dr. Linda will collaborate with you to help you meet your objectives within a reasonable and realistic time period.

CONFIDENTIALITY

All communication within the therapeutic relationship is strictly confidential. Without written permission of the patient, a therapist may not reveal information to anyone else, except when the law requires it. With couples in therapy, both parties must sign a release before any information can be released.

The law requires disclosure if there is a suspicion of child, dependent or elder abuse, or when the patient presents a danger to himself, others or to property, or is gravely disabled.

The law may also require disclosure if you name your mental status in a litigation initiated by you., yourself.

HEALTH INSURANCE AND CONFIDENTIALITY

When and if your health insurance requires disclosure of any information, Dr. Linda will provide only the minimum necessary information.

Dr. Linda will be happy to release any information to any agency or person upon your written request. Please note , however, that there may be a certain degree of risk to your privacy associated with submitting a mental health invoice for reimbursement.

TELEPHONE AND EMERGENCY PROCEDURES

Please call 911 in the event of a psychiatric or medical emergency.

Dr. Linda is available by phone. Please leave any message for her and she will return your call as soon as is possible. Be sure to leave your phone number and other contact information, whenever you call, as well as a good time to call you back.

PAYMENTS AND INSURANCE REIMBURSEMENT

Payment for professional services is due at the time of service. We accept all credit cards for your convenience. Dr. Linda does not accept payment from insurance companies.

If you have mental health benefits, and you choose to submit a claim for reimbursement, Dr Linda will provide you with a super-bill, with the information required by the insurance companies.

INFORMED CONSENT

Therapy is a relationship that works in part because of clearly defined rights and responsibilities held by each person. As a client in psychotherapy, you have certain rights and responsibilities that are important for you to understand. There are also legal limitations to those rights that you should be aware of. I, as your therapist, have corresponding responsibilities to you. These rights and responsibilities are described in the following sections.
Appointments will generally be scheduled for one hour sessions. The time may be adjusted according to need. My fee for service is $225.00 per hour. You may pay by check, cash or credit card. If you need to cancel, please do so twenty four hours in advance.
You are responsible for coverage from your health insurance carrier and I will be happy to fill out a form for you to submit.
The process of therapy includes an initial evaluation of your needs. If for any reason, you feel that you would like a second opinion or a referral to another therapist, I will be happy to facilitate that process.
I am required to keep appropriate records of the psychological services that I provide. Your records are maintained in a secure location.

While privacy in therapy is crucial to successful progress, parental involvement can also be essential. It is my policy not to provide treatment to a child under age 13 unless s/he agrees that I can share whatever information I consider necessary with a parent.

I also ask that parents allow me to keep confidentiality with their children, as long as no danger to themselves or others is involved.

If you are unhappy with the process of your therapy, I will be happy to address your concerns. I do not answer the phone while I am with other clients but I will get back to you as soon as is possible.

Linda Algazi Ph.D.