Informed Consent for Therapy Agreement

Welcome to Feliza. The information provided below outlines the terms and conditions of therapy, your rights as a client, and the responsibilities of both parties. Therapy is a collaborative process, and understanding these terms ensures a clear and professional therapeutic relationship. Please read the following carefully, and if you have any questions, discuss them with your therapist before beginning therapy.

1. Voluntary Participation

Therapy is a voluntary process, and you have the right to discontinue treatment at any time without penalty. Engaging in therapy requires a commitment of time, effort, and emotional engagement, as progress depends largely on active participation. The first few sessions provide an opportunity to determine if your therapist is the right fit for you. If, at any point, you feel that your therapist is not meeting your needs, you are encouraged to discuss it, and your therapist will assist in finding a suitable alternative.

2. Therapist and Client Responsibilities

As a client, you are expected to attend sessions punctually and actively participate in discussions. Honesty and openness are essential to ensuring meaningful progress in therapy. It is important that you refrain from attending therapy sessions under the influence of alcohol or any other mood-altering substances. Additionally, therapy does not end at the conclusion of each session; you are encouraged to reflect on and apply the insights gained in your daily life to maximize the benefits of treatment.

Your therapist is responsible for providing a safe, supportive, and professional environment while maintaining ethical and evidence-based care. The therapist’s role is to assist you in reaching your therapy goals by offering guidance, coping strategies, and insights into your thoughts and behaviors. While therapists strive to facilitate positive change, they cannot guarantee specific outcomes, as therapy is a deeply personal process influenced by multiple factors.

3. Confidentiality and Its Limits

Confidentiality is a fundamental principle of therapy, meaning that anything you share during sessions will remain private. However, there are certain legal and ethical exceptions to confidentiality. If your therapist believes there is an imminent risk of harm to yourself or others, they are required to break confidentiality to ensure safety. Similarly, if there is any suspicion or disclosure of abuse or neglect of a child, elderly person, or vulnerable adult, your therapist is legally obligated to report it to the relevant authorities. Confidentiality must also be breached if a court order mandates disclosure of therapy records or if you disclose sexual misconduct by another therapist. Additionally, if you are pregnant and using illegal substances that could harm the unborn child, your therapist is required to take appropriate action.

Feliza takes privacy and data protection seriously. All client records are securely stored and handled in compliance with relevant privacy laws, and no personal information will be shared without your written consent except in the cases mentioned above.

4. Risks and Benefits of Therapy

Therapy offers numerous benefits, including increased self-awareness, improved emotional regulation, better communication skills, and relief from symptoms related to mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression. Therapy can also help you develop healthier relationships and gain deeper insight into your thoughts and behaviors. However, as with any psychological intervention, there are potential risks. Therapy may bring up distressing emotions, such as sadness, anger, or frustration, especially when discussing past traumas or difficult life experiences. Personal growth and self-discovery may lead to changes in relationships and behavior that can sometimes feel unsettling. In some cases, symptoms may initially intensify before improvement occurs. It is important to communicate any concerns with your therapist to ensure that therapy remains a beneficial and constructive experience.

5. Therapy Approach and Alternative Options

Therapists at Feliza use a variety of evidence-based approaches tailored to individual client needs. These approaches may include Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), Mindfulness-Based Interventions, and Humanistic Therapy. Your therapist will discuss which approach is most suitable for you and adjust treatment plans as necessary.

If you ever feel that traditional therapy is not the right fit, there are alternative resources that may complement or substitute therapy. These include support groups, peer self-help programs, mindfulness practices, and stress management techniques. Your therapist can help explore these alternatives with you if needed.

6. Therapy Sessions and Duration

Therapy sessions are typically scheduled for 45–50 minutes and take place on a weekly or biweekly basis, depending on your needs and availability. The duration of therapy varies for each individual. Some clients find that they achieve their goals within 10–25 sessions, while others may require longer-term support. Progress depends on multiple factors, including the nature of the issues being addressed, the client’s level of engagement, and external life circumstances.

7. Scheduling, Cancellations, and Fees

Sessions must be scheduled in advance at a mutually agreed-upon time. If you need to cancel or reschedule an appointment, you must provide at least 24 hours’ notice. Late cancellations or missed appointments without prior notice may incur a cancellation fee.

Payment policies, including session fees and insurance coverage, will be discussed before beginning therapy. If you are using health insurance to cover your sessions, it is your responsibility to verify the details of your coverage and any co-payments required.

8. Emergency and Crisis Situations

Feliza does not provide emergency crisis intervention or psychiatric emergency services. If you are experiencing a crisis or require immediate support, please contact emergency services or a crisis helpline:

9. Consultations and Record Keeping

To maintain high-quality care, therapists may consult with other mental health professionals regarding treatment approaches. However, your identity will always remain confidential, and no identifying information will be shared. Therapy records are securely maintained for seven years after your last session, as required by professional and legal guidelines. You have the right to access your records, but you cannot alter them. If you are a minor (under 18), your parents or guardians may have access to your records, except in cases related to reproductive health, substance use treatment, or sexually transmitted infections.

10. Termination of Therapy

Therapy may be terminated when therapy goals have been met, or if the therapist believes that the client is no longer benefiting from sessions. If at any point you decide to discontinue therapy, you are encouraged to discuss this with your therapist so that appropriate closure and referrals, if needed, can be arranged. If therapy is terminated due to missed sessions or lack of engagement, you may be referred to another provider for continued care.