Confidentiality:
The law protects the relationship between a client and a psychotherapist, and information cannot be disclosed without written permission.
Exceptions include:
- Suspected child abuse or dependent adult or elder abuse, for which I am required by law to report this to the appropriate authorities immediately.
- If a client is threatening serious bodily harm to another person/s, I must notify the police and inform the intended victim.
- If a client intends to harm himself or herself, I will make every effort to enlist their cooperation in ensuring their safety. If they do not cooperate, I will take further measures without their permission that are provided to me by law in order to ensure their safety.
Cancellation Policy or Failed Appointments:
Charges will apply if you fail your appointment or cancel late. In the event that you fail to keep your appointment and have not called to cancel outside of 24 hours, you may be charged the full session fee. The only exception would be in case of a medical emergency or sudden illness since these are unavoidable. In such cases please contact the office as soon as possible. Please keep in mind that insurance companies do not reimburse for failed appointments. Mulitple failed appointments or cancellations may result in termination of treatment. In the event that you need to cancel, please phone or text Dr. Mario. Emails may not be retrieved in a timely manner or prior the scheduled session.
Communication Policy:
In order to truly protect your privacy, please refrain from discussing highly personal information about yourself or family members in texts or emails. Dr. Mario can not guarantee that any information shared through texts or emails can be kept confidential.
No Firearms Policy:
Although the state of Illinois now allows individuals to carry and conceal firearms, due to the sensitivity of certain emotional or relationship issues, clients are asked to respect the No Firearms on Premises policy. For risk managment purposes, clients may be asked if they own firearms or have access to firearms regardless of their emotional stability.
Substance Abuse Policy:
Please refrain from any substance use prior to your treatment session. For the purpose of comfort and safety, clients and/or family members who appear to be inebriated or under the influence of mood altering substances will initially be asked if they need help. If they refuse, they will be asked to leave the premises. If it becomes apparent that a client is under the influence of drugs or alcohol, the session will be discontinued and Dr. Mario will ask for your cooperation to arrange for safe transportation home. If needed, a taxi will be called on your behalf.