Policies and Communication

Policies & Communication

These policies are designed to keep my practice sustainable and fair, while also reflecting my own needs as an AuDHD therapist. They are structured with accessibility in mind—particularly for other AuDHD clients who benefit from clear systems, predictability, and fairness. Every part of my communication process is also HIPAA-compliant, so your privacy is protected.

You can skim the headings for a quick overview, or read in detail if you’d like more explanation. Important points are highlighted in bullets.

Communication Guidelines

At a Glance

  • Hushmail form → new inquiries

  • Hushmail email → my first reply to you

  • SimplePractice → paperwork, video consults, secure portal messages

  • Spruce (secure phone/text) → scheduling & logistics (clients only)

  • Emergencies → call 988 or 911

Initial Contact & Inquiries

  • Please reach out through my Hushmail contact form.

  • When you share your information, I will collect it only for the purpose of contacting you back.

  • I will respond via Hushmail secure email to begin our conversation.

Ongoing Communication

  • SimplePractice

    • Used for video consults, intake paperwork, scheduling, and secure portal messages.

    • Most official documentation and forms are shared here.

  • Spruce (secure phone/text)

    • Used for scheduling and logistics.

    • I prefer secure text messages, but I also accept phone calls if needed.

    • If you are already my client, you may text or call for urgent scheduling issues (e.g., running late, needing to cancel).

    • If you are not my client, please call 988 or 911 for urgent needs. I am unable to provide crisis support for individuals who are not established clients.

  • Keeping communication simple

    • Spruce is best for scheduling and logistics (e.g., lateness, rescheduling, appointment reminders).

    • More personal or complex topics are always welcome in session, where we can give them the time they deserve.

Attendance & Cancellations

  • 24-hour notice: I ask for at least 24 hours’ notice if you need to cancel or reschedule. This helps me offer your time to someone else who may be waiting.

  • Late cancellations & no-shows: Sessions canceled with less than 24 hours’ notice, or missed entirely, are billed at the full session rate.

    • This fee exists because the time is reserved just for you, and I cannot offer it to another client on short notice.

    • Having a clear policy also creates accountability and encourages conversations if scheduling needs to be adjusted.

  • Arriving late:

    • If you are more than 10 minutes late without contacting me, the session will be considered a no-show. This helps me stay prepared and ensures I can provide the best possible care.

    • If you let me know you will be 10–15 minutes late, we can still meet.

    • If it will be longer than 15 minutes, the session will need to be rescheduled. This is because sessions under 45 minutes are not billable to insurance and typically do not allow for meaningful clinical work.

  • Life happens:

    • Emergencies, illness, chronic health conditions, or unexpected events sometimes interfere with sessions.

    • In these cases, I prefer to reschedule within the same week rather than charge a late cancellation fee. If rescheduling isn’t possible, the late cancel fee may still apply. Please reach out as soon as you can so we can make a plan together.

  • Communication when late/missing: Please text me through Spruce if you are running late or unable to attend. This lets me know you are safe and helps us coordinate rescheduling as needed.

Crisis Support

I am not available outside of sessions for crisis or emergency care.

If you are not my client:

  1. Call 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline) or 911 right away.

  2. I cannot provide crisis support for individuals who are not established clients.

If you are my client:

  1. Please use crisis resources first (988, 911, or your personal safety plan).

  2. Once you are safe and connected to immediate support, I can follow up for additional care.

You are not alone, and immediate help is always available through crisis lines.

Good Faith Estimate (No Surprises Act)

I value transparency around costs. If you are paying out of pocket and not using insurance, you are entitled to a Good Faith Estimate of expected charges for services.

  • You have the right to receive this estimate in writing before we begin.

  • If you receive a bill at least $400 higher than your estimate, you can dispute the charges.

  • For more information, visit cms.gov/nosurprises.