OFFICE POLICIES, PRIVACY POLICY, and CONSENT TO TREATMENT
Welcome to the clinical practice of Merry Frons, Ph.D(c), LCSW, CAC. The following information is provided so you have a better understanding of the therapy process including my office policies and professional services, as well as your rights and responsibilities. Please read each item carefully and feel free to ask for clarification if needed. This document will constitute an agreement between us once you consent and sign the last page.
Treatment Philosophy
Psychotherapy is a collaborative process between you and your psychotherapist. You will be encouraged to take an active role in setting and achieving your treatment goals. For maximum success you will need to implement the ideas and strategies that we talk about during our sessions. Please don’t hesitate to ask any questions that might come up during our work together.
Benefits and Risks
Therapy often leads to a significant reduction in feelings of distress and to the resolution of specific problems. But it can require discussing unpleasant aspects of your life and may result in experiencing uncomfortable feelings such as anger, guilt, or frustration, for example. There are a natural part of the therapy process and often provide the basis for change.
Appointments and Financial Terms
A scheduled appointment means that time is reserved only for you. The fee for professional services is $130 for a 45-50 minute session. If you are accessing your managed care benefits and I am an in-network provider with your insurance plan, I have contracted to accept their rates and you may be responsible for a deductible and/or co-payment. Co-payments are due at the time services are rendered, unless we agree otherwise.
You are financially responsible for any appointments you do not keep unless you give a minimum of 24 hours notice. The fee will be $30. Please understand that you insurance does not pay for missed appointments. Exceptions will be made for emergency situations.
You agree to advise me immediately if your insurance coverage changes. If you do not advise me of a change you will be responsible for the full fee. If you chose not to use insurance benefits payment is expected at each appointment and can be paid by check, cash, or credit card.
It is my policy to charge for other professional services such as telephone conversation lasting longer than 15 minutes or letters, reports, or testimony.
Availability
You may contact me at the number or email listed above. I will do my best to return your call as soon as I can. I am not usually immediately available but will make every effort to respond as soon as possible. If you do not hear from me please make another effort to contact me in case I did not receive your message. In a crisis situation you may want to call 911 or go to your nearest Emergency Room. If I am away for an extended period of time I will leave the number of a covering clinician on my voice mail.


