GENERAL INFORMATION FOR PRIVATE PRACTICE CLIENTS 

The purpose of this memo is to spell out the procedures and policies governing my private practice. Please read it with the understanding that I have tried to set forth a clear structure in order to increase your comfort level and avoid future misunderstandings.

After reading, please download and sign document.

1) INITIAL CONSULTATION:
Our first appointment is scheduled for you to discuss your concerns and problems from your point of view. During this appointment some basic background information will be obtained. As part of this initial visit you will be asked to complete at least one questionnaire which will allow me to get a general view of your history and areas of concern. In times of crises the usual format of this visit is not followed and we will focus on the immediate crisis.

2) APPOINTMENTS:
My services are by appointment only.  The length of a  standard session is 45 minutes  is scheduled on an agreed upon time.    More frequent or longer sessions may be a more suitable treatment for you especially if your problems seriously impact your life or you are dealing with a crisis.

3) ATTENDANCE/CANCELLATIONS:
Please keep in mind that ongoing psychotherapy requires regular attendance at the agreed upon time and frequency.   Because appointment times are reserved for you, it is important to provide at least 24 hours of notice if you need to cancel a session.  If such notice is not provided, you will be charged for the session. The option available is a phone  or email session at  a mutually convenient time.      Exceptions to this policy are circumstances that we both agree are beyond your control. If you anticipate interruptions to our schedule please discuss them with me  at the start of our work together.

4) MESSAGES:
Due to the nature of my work, most calls are answered by voice mail. I check my messages several times during the day and am able to return most calls the same day. Please feel free to contact me by email drann44@gmail.com or by text message  301 346 9941.

5) PATIENT RIGHTS:
Patients are assured of confidentiality which is protected by both professional ethical practices and by Maryland Law. Your rights to privacy and confidentiality are explained in detail in the “Notice” accompanying this packet. Please read them carefully to familiarize yourself with your rights as well as exceptions to confidentiality.

6) FEES:
Patients are responsible for their own fees and payment is expected at the time of each session. I do not participate in any insurance panels and am considered an “out of network” provider.  I will give you a receipt which you can submit to your insurance company or as a courtesy I will prepare the claim and submit  it on your behalf. They will then provide partial reimbursement, subject to your individual plan. You, however, are responsible for paying me my full fee. If an unusual financial hardship arises during the course of therapy, I may be willing to negotiate a fee adjustment or payment installment plan.

7) LENGTH OF TREATMENT
How long treatment lasts is dependent on many factors including the severity of the issues, how long they have existed, the support system, and your goals.  In other words it lasts as long as it lasts which is different for different people. Entering, staying and leaving therapy is completely voluntary.

8) TERMINATION
Bringing the therapeutic process to a close appropriately is an important part of treatment and is most effective when it is planned and discussed in session You are free to terminate at any time you wish. Treatment comes to an end when your  a) goals have been achieved  b) you no longer benefit from therapy c) your needs can bet better met by another provider d) you  repeatedly fail to keep scheduled appointments

You may have the impulse to terminate prematurely when facing emotionally difficult issues. Abrupt endings, especially when feeling angry, misunderstood or suddenly cured is usually an attempt to avoid emotional conflicts. Should this reaction occur, the best way to handle it is to examine the feelings and circumstances involved together in session. These kinds of reactions  give us the opportunity to identify important emotional blocks that have probably stood in the way for a long time.

IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS OR CONCERNS ABOUT THE ABOVE STATED POLICIES, PLEASE FEEL FREE TO DISCUSS THEM WITH ME.