JULIE D. WOOD, MA

Licensed Mental Health Counselor, National Certified Counselor

Marriage and Family Therapist –AAMFT Clinical Member and Approved Supervisor

Psychotherapy, Family Therapy, and Consultation

 

DISCLOSURE STATEMENT and OFFICE POLICIES

 

The following disclosure meets the requirements of Washington State Law. Please read thoroughly and ask any questions that you may have.

 

"Counselors practicing counseling for a fee must be registered or licensed with the department of health for the protection of the public health and safety. Registration does not include a recognition of any practice standards nor necessarily implies effectiveness of any treatment.""The Counselor Credentialing Act provides protection for public health and safety, 2) empowers the citizens of Washington by providing a complaint process against those counselors who would commit acts of unprofessional conduct (see brochure)."  WAC 246-810-031

PROFESSIONAL  QUALIFICATIONS

I have a masters degree in psychology from Seattle University and a postgraduate certificate in marriage and family therapy.  I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC#30003298), a National Certified Counselor, and a Clinical Member and Approved Supervisor of  American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy. I have completed a certificate in parenting evaluations for court proceedings from the Parent Evalualtion and Treatment Program at the UW's Law School. I have been practicing since 1990.

In addition to broad clinical training, I have specialized training and experience  in marriage and family therapy, child and adolescent therapy, grief, early childhood mental health issues, high conflict divorce, and pediatric disability. I work with individuals and families dealing with depression, anxiety, grief, relationship problems, healing from trauma, and developmental issues of childhood and parenthood. Since 1992, I have directed a counseling program for families who have children with health  issues, special developmental needs or disabilities. 

 

THERAPY ORIENTATION

I work from an integrated developmental approach based on psychodynamic and family systems theory. At times, I may also include a cognitive behavioral approach. When treating children, I use art, play, and sandtray techniques, where communication occurs through play and metaphor. Our initial contact is primarily evaluative, although some therapeutic benefit may occur.  I will actively use my training and experience to help  you meet  your goals.  Successful treatment is a direct result of  mutual efforts, honesty, and a spirit of collaboration. 

 

RISKS and BENEFITS

There are risks and benefits of psychotherapy.  Benefits may include relief from distressing symptoms, improved emotional and physical health, and more satisfying interpersonal relationships.  However, significant personal change is potentially  stressful, and may include periods of intense or uncomfortable feelings.  Other risks may include an increased  awareness of feelings, values, and beliefs that could lead to new choices, behaviors, and changes in your relationships with others.  I will provide my professional opinion and recommendation at any time that you ask for it.  I will recommend an evaluation for medication  or second opinions as needed. The termination of services may be initiated by either of us. 

 

CLIENT RIGHTS  and CONFIDENTIALITY

You have the right to choose a therapist who best suits your needs and purposes. You have the right to refuse treatment.  You are entitled to receive appropriate care, respect, and confidentiality.  I will hold all information confidentially unless you grant permission for me to share information by using a Release of Information Form.  Washington state law RCW 18.19.180(1) requires that confidentiality must be breached when: 1) abuse of a child or elder has not been reported, then I must report it, 2) I believe that there is danger of imminent harm to yourself or other, 3) some instances of court subpoena.

When I am working with a child I highly value collaboration with parents.  I may sometimes keep specific details confidential to facilitate trust with a  child. Children 14 and older are entitled to the above rights and to confidentiality under Washington state law.  As a parent, you have the right and responsibility to question and understand activities aimed at helping your child, and to understand that you have the most important role in your child's life. 

 

SCHEDULING  and FEES:

 

I schedule appointments directly with you. Sessions are 50 minutes long. Please cancel appointments with 24 hours notice. When you miss an appointment  you will be charged since that time is reserved especially for you.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          (Initial)___________________

                       

 $100 per hour.   Payment is expected at time of service.                 (Initial)___________________

 

Fees apply to therapy or consultation sesssions.  It also applies to telephone consultations that exceed 15 minutes,  extensive report writing, travel, and consultations in other settings. Please inform me of any special financial needs you may have. Failure to pay an account  for 90 days may result in transfer to a collections agency.

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If you are using Regence Preferred Provider health insurance, your initials verify your permission for me to bill on your behalf.                                          

(Initial)___________________

I do not bill insurance directly.  If you plan to use your insurance, you must submit a copy of the statement to your insurance company. Regardless of  insurance policies, you are responsible for full payment of  fees.  Please be aware that there may be a loss of confidentiality in the  process.

                                               

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I  have read the above material and agree to its terms. I have had the opportunity to ask questions. I have received a copy of the Washington State brochure on counseling.

 

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Julie Wood, MA, LMHC                                                               Date

 

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