Dean R. Bender, MA
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
California License number 49427
Utah License number 11880940-3902
Idaho License number LMFT-7841
5230 2nd Street Email bender.mft@gmail.com
Rocklin, CA 95677 Phone/voicemail (916) 300-4543
The following information will help you to better understand the services offered to you.
GOALS AND OUTCOMES: Generally, counseling is most useful in helping individuals help themselves or improve their relationships by changing feelings, thoughts, and/or behaviors. You will be given assignments to complete between sessions. Your progress is largely dependent on your efforts. You determine the nature and amount of change you wish to make.
RISKS AND BENEFITS OF THERAPY: Most people experience improvement or resolution to the concerns that brought them to counseling, but of course, there are no guarantees; and there are some risks. For example, counseling can open up new levels of awareness that may cause discomfort. At the same time, counseling can aid you in discovering tools and techniques that you can use to improve the quality of your life and your relationships. Feel free to ask questions at any time in the process.
FEES: Fees are payable at the time of service. Your fee is $75.00 for a 50-55 minute session. I am not a contract provider through insurance companies at this time. I reserve the right to periodically adjust fees. You will be notified of any changes 30 days in advance. Payment may be made by check or cash.
MISSED/ CANCELLED APPOINTMENTS and TELEPHONE CALLS: Continuity is important in the therapeutic process, but if you need to cancel an appointment, please contact me as soon as you can prior to the session. A private message can be left on my confidential voice mail (916) 300-4543 or a text sent to that number. I check messages and will return calls as soon as possible. I am unable to provide 24-hour crisis service. In the event that you or a family member feels unsafe or requires medical or psychiatric assistance, call 911, or go to the nearest emergency room.
CONFIDENTIALITY: One of the important rights you have as a client involves confidentiality. The information obtained during counseling will not be revealed to others outside this office without your written permission. However, there are certain situations when I am required by law, or permitted by law, to reveal information obtained during therapy to another person or agency without your authorization. This generally involves situations where there is suspected harm to minors or elders or a client’s threat to harm self or others.
PROFESSIONAL CONSULTATION: Professional consultation is an important part of a healthy counseling practice. I periodically participate in clinical, ethical and legal consultation with appropriate professionals. During such consultations, I will not reveal any personally identifying information regarding you or your family.
TERMINATION OF THERAPY: I have the right to terminate therapy at my discretion. Reasons for termination include but are not limited to, untimely payment of fees, failure to comply with treatment recommendations, conflicts of interest, or client needs which are outside my scope of competency or practice. You have the right to terminate therapy at your discretion. Upon either party’s decision to terminate therapy, I will generally recommend that the client participates in at least one terminating session, which is intended to facilitate a positive termination experience and give you an opportunity to reflect on the work that has been done and what could be done, going forward to continue the progress. I will attempt to ensure a smooth transition to another therapist by offering referrals if desired.