Therapy is a collaborative effort and change is seldom quick and easy. I will provide the best possible treatment for you; your active participation and effort are equally important. Most clients have experienced significant benefits from therapy, and there are also times when the experience can be difficult. Some people experience uncomfortable levels of feelings like sadness, guilt, anxiety, anger or frustration. Very occasionally, increased self-awareness may even disrupt your life (for example, realizing a relationship or job is harmful for you) in ways you did not anticipate. Although it’s not possible to guarantee specific results, the majority of people find that the benefits of therapy are worth the effort.

I see adults (18 years and older) individually and in groups. My approach as a therapist is to focus on mindfulness, self-acceptance, and psychological flexibility. These approaches have been found to be beneficial to most clients. However, my approach may be tailored to fit you your particular needs and goals.

To make or cancel appointments

Call 919-943-6245. I will try to get back to you within 24 hours. If you do not have an email address, forms will be available at the initial visit. If you do have an email address, I will ask for it and if you would like I can provide forms and other services via a link to a client portal.

Canceling appointments more than occasionally can interfere with your progress. It also makes it difficult for me to plan my schedule. If you must cancel an appointment, you will not be charged if you cancel 24 hours in advance. If possible, more notice is always appreciated.

You may be charged the full fee if you cancel with less than 24 hours’ notice or don’t show up for the appointment. This charge may be waived or reduced in some circumstances and we will decide together if your situation warrants that. If you do not keep two appointments in a row and I don’t hear from you I will not continue to reserve a time in my schedule. You are still always welcome to contact me about resuming therapy.

Fees

At this time I accept Medicare and Blue Cross Blue Shield. An initial assessment appointment (60 minutes) is $180. The fee for 45 minutes of individual psychotherapy/counseling is $150 per session and for 60 minutes is $180.  I will consider a sliding scale fee due to financial need. You are responsible for the payment of the fee that is due at the time of the appointment. I accept most major credit and debit cards. Checks should be made out to Jean Hamilton Counseling PLLC. Please contact your insurance company to find out if there can be reimbursement for my services if you file your own claims. In that case, I will provide a receipt.

Confidentiality

Your privacy is extremely important to me. In addition, it is protected by state and federal laws, as well as, by my professional ethics. I will never reveal anything about your treatment, diagnosis, history, or even that you have met with me professionally, unless you provide written consent for me to do so. Exceptions are outlined below.

There are some very rare situations when I am required to breach confidentiality. I must report serious, current abuse of a minor or dependent adult. If I believe that you are in imminent danger of seriously harming yourself or someone else, I must take steps to prevent either from occurring. This may include informing law enforcement, warning the intended victim or arranging for hospitalization. I may have to disclose your PHI if I am ordered by a court to do so. If you experience a psychiatric emergency, I will disclose your PHI to other licensed health providers to the extent necessary to access appropriate care for you. This is spelled out in detail in the HIPAA notice.

If you have questions, please let me know. I’ll always be willing to discuss these and other issues with you.