Terms of Service

1. Agreement to Terms

By accessing our website, scheduling an appointment, or receiving counseling services from Azmeh Amer, LPC ("we," "our," or "us"), you agree to be bound by these Terms of Service and our Privacy Policy. If you do not agree to these terms, please do not use our services.

2. Services Provided

Azmeh Amer, LPC provides professional mental health counseling services, including:

• Individual therapy
• Group therapy
• Clinical supervision for mental health professionals
• Consultation services

Services are provided by licensed mental health professionals in accordance with state regulations in Pennsylvania, Colorado, and Texas.

3. Eligibility

To receive our services, you must:

• Be at least 18 years of age, or have parental/guardian consent if a minor
• Reside in or be physically located in Pennsylvania, Colorado, or Texas during sessions
• Provide accurate and complete information when scheduling or participating in services
• Agree to the therapeutic process and informed consent procedures

4. Client Responsibilities

4.1 Informed Consent

Before beginning services, clients will receive and sign informed consent documents outlining the nature of therapy, confidentiality, limits of confidentiality, and treatment expectations.

4.2 Attendance and Cancellations

• Appointments: Arrive on time for scheduled sessions
• Cancellations: Provide at least 24 hours' notice for cancellations
• No-Show Policy: Missed appointments without 24-hour notice may incur fees
• Late Cancellation Fee: Cancellations with less than 24 hours' notice may be charged at the full session rate

4.3 Payment

• Payment is due at the time of service unless other arrangements have been made
• Clients are responsible for co-pays, deductibles, and any non-covered services
• Outstanding balances may result in suspension of services
• Insurance claims will be filed on your behalf when applicable

4.4 Communication

• Provide accurate contact information and update as needed
• Respond to communication requests in a timely manner
• Understand that email and text messages are not secure forms of communication for sensitive information
• In case of emergency, contact 911 or a crisis hotline immediately

5. Therapist Responsibilities

We are committed to:

• Providing competent, ethical, and professional services
• Maintaining confidentiality as required by law and professional standards
• Adhering to HIPAA regulations and state privacy laws
• Providing a safe, respectful, and non-discriminatory environment
• Responding to communication within 24-48 business hours

6. Confidentiality

All information shared in therapy is confidential, except in the following circumstances:

• Danger to Self or Others: If there is imminent risk of harm
• Child/Elder/Dependent Abuse: Mandatory reporting requirements
• Court Orders: When legally required by subpoena or court order
• Written Authorization: When you provide written consent to release information
• Insurance/Payment: Information necessary for billing and claims processing

Please refer to our Privacy Policy for detailed information.

7. Teletherapy Services

If participating in virtual/online therapy sessions:

• Ensure you are in a private, secure location for sessions
• Use a reliable internet connection and compatible device
• Be physically located in Pennsylvania, Colorado, or Texas during the session
• Understand that technology failures may occur and have a backup plan
• Consent to the use of HIPAA-compliant telehealth platforms

8. Emergencies and Crisis Situations

Our services do not provide 24/7 emergency support. In case of emergency:

• Call 911 immediately
• Contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988
• Visit your nearest emergency room
• Contact a local crisis hotline or mobile crisis team

9. Fees and Insurance

9.1 Session Fees

Session fees will be discussed and agreed upon during the initial consultation. Fees may vary based on service type and session length.

9.2 Insurance

• We accept various insurance plans; verification is recommended before services begin
• You are responsible for understanding your insurance benefits and coverage
• Insurance may not cover all services; you are responsible for non-covered amounts
• We will file claims on your behalf as a courtesy

9.3 Self-Pay

Self-pay options are available. Payment plans may be arranged on a case-by-case basis.

10. Termination of Services

Either party may terminate the therapeutic relationship:

• Client-Initiated: You may discontinue services at any time
• Therapist-Initiated: We may terminate if:
  • You require specialized care outside our scope of practice
  • Non-payment of fees despite reasonable attempts to resolve
  • You violate these Terms of Service
  • The therapeutic relationship is no longer beneficial

Appropriate referrals will be provided when terminating services.

11. Website Use

11.1 Acceptable Use

You agree to use our website only for lawful purposes. Prohibited activities include:

• Attempting to gain unauthorized access to our systems
• Transmitting viruses or malicious code
• Harassing, threatening, or impersonating others
• Scraping or copying content without permission

11.2 Intellectual Property

All content on this website, including text, graphics, logos, and images, is the property of Azmeh Amer, LPC and protected by copyright laws. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

12. Limitation of Liability

To the fullest extent permitted by law:

• We are not liable for any indirect, incidental, or consequential damages
• Website content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice
• We are not responsible for third-party links or external content
• Our liability is limited to the amount paid for services

13. Disclaimer

Therapy is a collaborative process, and outcomes cannot be guaranteed. While we strive to provide effective treatment, results vary based on individual circumstances, commitment, and other factors beyond our control.

14. Professional Boundaries

• Therapist-client relationships are professional only
• Dual relationships (social, business, or romantic) are prohibited
• Gifts and bartering are generally not accepted
• Social media connections with clients are not permitted

15. Governing Law

These Terms of Service are governed by the laws of the state where services are provided (Pennsylvania, Colorado, or Texas). Any disputes will be resolved in the appropriate state court.

16. Changes to Terms

We reserve the right to update these Terms of Service. Changes will be posted on this page with an updated "Last Updated" date. Continued use of services after changes constitutes acceptance. For significant changes, we will provide direct notice to active clients.

17. Severability

If any provision of these Terms is found to be unenforceable, the remaining provisions will remain in full effect.

18. Contact Information

For questions about these Terms of Service, please contact:

19. Acknowledgment

By using our services, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to these Terms of Service and our Privacy Policy. If receiving counseling services, you will be asked to sign a separate informed consent document.