Introduction: Psychotherapy involves entering into a relationship with a licensed professional. The following parameters about confidentiality, fees/billing, phone calls, and risks and benefits of treatment, are some of the "nuts and bolts" of the therapy relationship and are designed to help create a safe and professional atmosphere. The following information is included to help inform you of some of what you might expect in psychotherapy.

Confidentiality: Confidentiality is essential to the development of the therapy relationship. The information you share with your therapist is held in the strictest confidence and may not be released to anyone without your written consent as prescribed by law. There are a few exceptions to this, which are also regulated by State law. For example, in cases of suspected child or elderly abuse, or if a person poses a serious and imminent danger to her/himself or someone else, your therapist is mandated by law to report this information to the proper authorities. Information subpoenaed by a valid court order is usually not protected by this limit on confidentiality. These situations rarely occur and are the only exceptions to otherwise 100% confidentiality of what you talk about during therapy. In addition, some insurance companies require very brief and limited treatment information including diagnosis, and in some cases information about presenting symptoms and treatment planning. If you do sign a consent to release information, you are encouraged to discuss the amount, type, and purpose of information to be discussed with your therapist. This allows you to maintain the highest level of confidentiality possible. It is also appropriate for your therapist to discuss your care with professional colleagues for consultation, supervision, and coordination of care. Please discuss any questions you have about confidentiality with your therapist.

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Fees/Billing: Each client is responsible for managing the finances of the psychotherapy relationship. Fees are standardized throughout the group. Your health insurance may cover all or part of the fees and we will work with you to facilitate the exchange of information with your insurance company for payment, and we will usually directly submit your claims electronically to your insurance carrier. You should contact your health insurance company or consult with your therapist for additional information. Each client is responsible for payment for services rendered the day of the appointment.

• Initial Appointment = $170.00
• 45-50 minute psychotherapy session = $150.00
• Psychological Testing = $170.00 per hour (Your insurance may cover)
  

Most insurance companies do NOT cover the following:

• School staffing attendance = $50.00
• Late (less than 24 hour) notice to Cancel or No-Show = $100.00

Since we reserve your appointment time for you there will be a charge for any appointments missed or not canceled within 24 hours of your appointment time.

Insurance does not cover the Late Cancel/ No Show fee, which means that it is essential for you to cancel your appointment at least 24 hours in advance to avoid this charge.

Phone calls: Instructions for emergency calls are given on the outgoing message for Central Iowa Psychological Services (515) 222-1999 and (515) 233 1122. Please leave a detailed message describing the emergency before paging staff. Your local emergency room or law enforcement agency can provide emergency help if the crisis is acute. Scheduling and canceling of appointments are handled through the same numbers. You may leave a message on the answering machine to cancel appointments. Please include your name, your therapist's name, the appointment time, and a contact phone number.

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Risks and Benefits: Psychotherapy is considered to be a safe and effective treatment for a wide range of mental health concerns. Some of the benefits include reduction of symptoms, development of coping and problem solving skills, providing support during intense emotional times, and facilitating the creation of healthier relationships. Risks can include initial and temporary increases in emotional tension or discomfort. Changes during therapy may occur that affect relationships. If these become too distressing, please discuss them with your therapist.

Alternatives to psychotherapy, include no treatment or medication therapy. Medication may be an option for assistance with managing the physiological/medical problems associated with mental health concerns. The therapist you work with can assist you with a referral for a medical or psychiatric consultation if needed.

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