What we talk about in your sessions is private and confidential. This means I will not share what you tell me with anyone else without your written permission.

The only times I may have to share information—because I am legally or ethically required—are if:

• You are in immediate danger of harming yourself or someone else.

• There is suspected abuse or neglect of a child, elder, or dependent adult.

• I am required by a court order to release information.

Outside of these situations, your personal information and what we discuss will stay between us. If you want me to share information (for example, with a doctor, school, or family member), you will need to sign a release form first.

Your trust is important to me, and protecting your privacy is a core part of our work together.

We understand that life happens, but to keep our schedule fair for all clients, we have a firm cancellation policy. If you need to cancel or reschedule a session, we require at least 24 hours’ notice.

If a session is canceled or rescheduled less than 24 hours before your appointment time, a mandatory automatic cancellation fee will be charged. This fee is equal to the full out-of-pocket rate for the service that was scheduled, and there are no exceptions.

However, if you’re able to make time to attend at least 17 minutes or so of your scheduled session—whether in over the phone or virtually—the fee will be waived or reduced to a nominal amount.

This policy allows us to reserve your time and make it available to others if you can’t attend, while still giving you the chance to get some benefit from your reserved session.

Yes! We do accept out-of-pocket payments. Just let our team know if that’s your preference, and we’ll walk you through the process and answer any questions you may have.

Yes, through a superbill.

A superbill is a special receipt we can give you that lists the details of your therapy sessions—like dates, fees, and the service codes insurance companies use. You can send this document to your insurance company to see if they will pay you back for some of the cost of therapy.

When you can use it:

• If we are out-of-network with your insurance, a superbill may help you get partial reimbursement for sessions.

• You’ll usually need to submit it yourself to your insurance company (often through their online portal or by mail).

Why you might want to use it:

• It could lower your overall cost of therapy if your plan offers out-of-network benefits.

Why you might not want to use it:

• Your insurance company may require a mental health diagnosis to process the reimbursement.

• They may not cover the services at all, depending on your plan.

• Using a superbill means your insurance company will have certain details about your therapy in their records.

• Its more work on your end.

If you’d like to learn more about how superbills work, check out our video on the Smooth Stone Counseling YouTube channel for a step-by-step explanation.

Just look at the one above lol.

No. You get to choose your own therapist—you do not need a doctor’s referral to work with me. If you’d like me to communicate with your doctor, I’m happy to do so with your written permission through a signed release form.

If your insurance plan requires a referral for psychotherapy services, you can simply let your doctor know you’d like to see me. You are not required to pick from their list, as long as I am in-network with your insurance.ion text goes here

No—you are never locked into therapy. You are in charge of your own therapy journey (unless services are court mandated). You can discontinue services at any time. While it’s preferred that you let your therapist know if you’d like to end therapy so we can have a termination session and wrap things up in a supportive way, it’s always your choice.

You’re also welcome to restart services in the future, as long as it makes sense for your needs and there is availability. Finding the right therapist is important, and we understand that we may not be the best fit for everyone. My goal is for you to feel supported and empowered—whether that’s with us or with someone else who’s a better match for you.

Starting therapy can feel intimidating, so we want you to know what to expect—and just as importantly, what you won’t experience with us.

At Smooth Stone Counseling, we:

• Go at your pace. We won’t push you to learn new skills or talk about things before you’re ready.

• Keep family sessions safe. We don’t blame one person or “pick sides.” Our focus is on understanding, not pointing fingers.

• Believe therapy should be a choice. No one should be forced into it—real progress happens when you’re ready and willing. Court-mandated therapy can be tough, but we’re committed to partnering with you so it’s a productive and respectful experience.

• Prioritize safety for everyone. We work hard to make therapy a positive experience, especially for children and teens.

• Are honest about the process. Therapy isn’t magic—it takes time, consistency, and bravery to see change.

• Value communication. We can’t read your mind, so we encourage you to share what you’re feeling and needing along the way.

• See you as whole. Therapy isn’t about “fixing” you—you are not broken. It’s about growth, healing, and building tools for life.

We’re here to walk alongside you, at your pace, with compassion and respect.