1. Purpose and Scope
This document outlines the terms of service, privacy policy, and client rights for individuals receiving services at Vivus Counseling Services in accordance with Colorado State Law and the Behavioral Health Administration (BHA) regulations.
2. Confidentiality and Privacy
- Vivus Counseling Services adheres to HIPAA guidelines and Colorado state confidentiality laws to protect your personal health information.
- Information will not be released without your written consent, except in cases required by law, including but not limited to suspected child abuse, elder abuse, danger to self or others, or court-ordered disclosures.
- Electronic Health Records (EHR) are securely stored using encrypted systems to ensure your privacy.
3. Client Rights
- Clients have the right to receive services in a safe, respectful, and non-discriminatory environment.
- Clients have the right to request access to their records, request amendments, and receive an accounting of disclosures.
- Clients have the right to participate in treatment planning and to refuse or withdraw from treatment at any time, understanding the potential implications of doing so.
4. Payments, Fees, and Insurance
- Vivus Counseling accepts Medicaid, selected private insurance providers, and offers sliding-scale payment options for eligible clients.
- Clients are responsible for co-pays and fees not covered by insurance, and payment is due at the time of service unless a payment plan has been arranged.
- Missed appointments or late cancellations (less than 24 hours) may result in a cancellation fee.
5. Telehealth Services
- Telehealth services are available and conducted through secure, HIPAA-compliant platforms.
- Clients consent to the use of telehealth by participating in these sessions.
6. Use of Services
- Services include individual counseling, group therapy, family therapy, forensic evaluations, and domestic violence treatment, aligned with Colorado BHA guidelines.
- Domestic violence treatment follows DVOMB-approved protocols.
7. Limitations of Services
- Vivus Counseling does not provide emergency services. For crises, clients should call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
- Services are provided based on the scope of practice of our clinicians and may require referral to external providers for specialized care beyond our capacity.
8. Communication Policy
- Communication with Vivus staff may occur via phone, email, secure messaging, or encrypted email systems.
- Non-secure communication methods are discouraged for sharing sensitive information.
9. Policy Changes
Vivus Counseling Services may update these policies as required to comply with changes in Colorado law, BHA policy, or federal regulations. Clients will be notified of significant changes.
10. Consent to Treatment
By engaging with Vivus Counseling Services, you acknowledge you have read, understood, and agree to these terms and policies and consent to treatment under these guidelines.
For questions or concerns about these policies, please contact:
- Vivus Counseling Services
- 6290 Lehman Drive, Suite 100, Colorado Springs, CO 80918
- Phone: 719-755-0130
- Email: admin@vivuscounseling.com
This policy ensures compliance with Colorado State Law and BHA regulations while maintaining the confidentiality, rights, and safety of clients receiving care at Vivus Counseling Services.