Virtual Practice Clarification

I am a California Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT #154230) and Associate Professional Clinical Counselor (APCC #19060), supervised by Caroline McDowell, MFT #4735.

I do not operate an independent private practice. Solid Ground Trauma Counseling & Addiction (Solid Ground TCA) is my developing professional brand.

Telehealth Platform & Security

Sessions are conducted through a HIPAA-compliant telehealth platform to protect your privacy. Before our first session, you’ll receive instructions on how to access and prepare for your virtual appointment.

Technology Requirements

To participate in telehealth sessions, you will need:

• A reliable internet connection
• A device with a camera and microphone
• A private and confidential space
• A backup communication method (such as a phone)

Emergency Protocols

Because telehealth has limitations during emergencies, we will establish a plan before starting therapy, including:

• Your local emergency resources
• Your crisis contacts in California
• A designated emergency contact person
• Procedures for responding to a crisis during a session

Privacy Considerations

To help protect your confidentiality during sessions:

• Choose a private, secure location
• Use headphones when possible
• Do not record sessions without mutual consent
• Ensure others cannot hear or see your screen

Understanding Your Investment

Payment & Insurance

My clinical work is provided in a private-pay setting, and I currently choose not to panel with or bill insurance directly. Any insurance-related options or reimbursement procedures are determined in collaboration with the licensed supervisor and clinical setting I practice under.

When permitted within the supervised setting, I am able to provide a superbill that clients may submit to their insurance for possible out-of-network reimbursement, depending on their plan.

Important Considerations

• Insurance requires a mental health diagnosis for reimbursement
• Submitting claims may involve sharing session information
• Insurance records may become part of your permanent medical record
• Reimbursement varies by plan and is not guaranteed
• You are responsible for submitting superbills to your insurance

Private pay protects your privacy, does not require a diagnosis, and gives you the flexibility to choose the therapist and approach that best support you.

Good Faith Estimate (No Surprises Act)

Under federal law (Section 2799B-6), you are entitled to a Good Faith Estimate of expected costs if you are uninsured or paying out of pocket.

You will receive an estimate:

• Upon request
• When scheduling
• In writing at least one business day before your session

If your bill exceeds the estimate by $400 or more, you may dispute the charge. More information is available at www.cms.gov/nosurprises or 1-800-985-3059.

Practice Guidelines

My work follows:

• California Board of Behavioral Sciences regulations
• HIPAA privacy and security standards
• Evidence-based therapeutic practices
• Regular clinical supervision and consultation