As you consider having your minor begin counseling at Balance Counseling, LLC it is important that you know how we view the counseling process and what you can expect from our work with your minor. Please read and sign this statement. If you have any questions, let us discuss these in our first session together.
Following an initial assessment process with you, the parents/guardians, our sessions will primarily consist of working with your minor. We will try to create a trusting environment where your minor feels safe to share thoughts, ideas and feelings. This is done by working with your child in a variety of ways such as play and art. It is the goal of the therapist to develop a counseling plan around your minor's interests. During this process we will listen carefully to understand the meaning your minor has made of events and relationships in his/her life. The main focus however will be on what is happening in his/her life now.
We value the importance of your minor knowing that what he/she shares in these sessions will not be shared with others without his/her permission; thus we will not share information of the counseling sessions with parents/guardians unless we have discussed this with the minor first. On occasion, we will meet with parents/guardians individually or along with the minor to communicate issues that have been discussed in counseling. If the parents/guardians have concerns, it is asked that they call the therapist immediately to discuss these. We value a positive relationship with all family members and believe this is important for benefiting your minor's counseling process. Please see additional information about confidentiality below.
The benefits of counseling can be increased understanding, self-confidence, and accomplishment of goals. There may also be some risks involved. Your minor may experience painful memories/ feelings that may result in different behaviors. We will work with the parents/guardians and other family members to resolve any problems that may arise. Most minors and parents/guardians find that the benefits of counseling outweigh the risks.
You may choose to have your minor leave counseling at any time, however, it is best if this decision is discussed with our counselor and planned in a mutual way. Alternatives to your minor's individual counseling such as parent groups, reading material for the minor and parent/ guardians, family counseling or support groups for the minor and/or parents/guardians may be recommended.
It is the policy of Balance Counseling, LLC. to keep all client information confidential. This includes information known to your therapist, or shared in supervision, or information in your medical records. If you wish information to be shared with other health providers and/or insurance companies, a signed release from you will be required.
There are some limitations to confidentiality. If it is suspected that your minor may be a danger to self or others or if it is suspected that a minor is being abused, then legal and ethical standards require that an appropriate person or agency be notified. In some court situations, a judge might order that confidential information be disclosed. We will inform you if this situation occurs.
Frequency and duration of sessions vary and are mutually decided upon. By signing this form, you are giving us permission to bill your insurance company and share records as required to bill insurance. You are responsible for any fees that are not covered by your insurance. If you have questions about our fees, please talk to your therapist or our business manager.