Minors and Parents

I counsel minor children under the age of 18 by seeking parental, or legal guardian, or custodial consent. I normally do not counsel younger children alone, but with one or both parents in the context of family counseling. Parents should be aware laws vary by state, and may allow certain minor adolescent children access to counseling without parental approval, and may or may not allow parents to view their child's treatment record, including the Billing Record and Case Record.

Because privacy in counseling is often crucial to successful progress, particularly with adolescents, and parental involvement is essential, I will generally seek agreement with you and your adolescent minor(s) (ages 12-17) about access to this information. Usually, I will only provide parents with general information about the progress of counseling, and the teenager's attendance. Any other communication should involve the teenager's consent, unless I believe that the adolescent is in danger or is a danger to someone else, in which case I will notify the parent(s) of my concern. Prior to giving parents further information, I normally will discuss the matter with the adolescent, if possible, and encourage further communication with the parent(s).

Client Rights

Explore your HIPAA rights as a client, including access to your records, requesting amendments, limiting disclosures, and how to file a complaint—all designed to protect your privacy and empower your care.

Privacy and Breach Notification

Learn how your protected health information is safeguarded, how breaches are handled and reported, and how you'll be kept informed of any changes to privacy policies to ensure your trust and security.

How I Can Be Contacted

Due to my work schedule, I am not often immediately available to talk by phone. To schedule, change or cancel appointments it is easiest to reach me on my cell phone by texting me at (413) 663-0094.

Confidential messages may be left on my email. Once you have started counseling, I recommend contacting me by email at douglas.s.duncan6@gmail.com to schedule or change appointments. If you are difficult to reach and want to talk, please let me know of several times you may be available. Please note that messages left on my email are not HIPAA compliant because they do not fully protect your PHI. Only leave messages that do not contain sensitive personal health information (PHI).

You may try to reach me after hours for emergencies. Because I may not be available, please remember that if you believe you have a medical emergency, or may be at risk of harming yourself or someone else, you should call 911 or go to your nearest hospital emergency room for immediate help. If you are not at risk and can wait, please leave a text on my cell phone and I will get back to you as soon as I can. Make sure you identify yourself by name. If I am away for an extended time, such as on vacation, I will leave the name and number of a colleague who is also a Biblical counselor to contact.

On-line sessions are available through Simple Practice and you will be given a portal through which you will be sent links for accessing upcoming sessions.

(413) 663-0094
douglas.s.duncan6@gmail.com

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