Privacy & Office Policies

Appointments

Appointments can be made via phone, text, email, or online form. After I receive your request, I will either confirm it or suggest an alternate time.

Frequency

Therapy is most effective when we meet regularly and at the same time if possible. This helps create a regular process and lets your mind know it’s time to work on your self and your concerns. Regular sessions also allow me to get to know you better faster, creating a better environment for benefits.

Clients should expect to meet for at least one session each week. There are discounted rated available if you would like to meet for two or more sessions each week on a regular basis.

Couples sessions start with one joint meeting followed by one individual session for each partner. After the individual sessions, we typically meet jointly once per week.

Payment

Payment is due at the end of each session. I accept checks, Zelle, Visa, Amex, and Master Card. A receipt or billing statement will be provided upon request. There is a $6 fee for cards to partially cover bank fees.

Insurance

I do not currently accept any insurance plans, but I do accept payments using FSA or HSA cards. If your plan includes out of network coverage you may also be eligible for partial reimbursement. 

I am happy to provide a receipt or superbill that you can file with your HSA provider or your insurance company. Please check with your benefits manager or insurance provider for more information on the benefits available to you. 

Discounted Sessions

Discounts can be available for people who want to meet with more frequency or on a limited basis for people who are in a difficult financial situation and unable to afford the cost of sessions.

If you have a low income or are going through a particularly difficult time, there is an ultra-low cost option available based on demonstrated need. To see if there is a low-fee slot available, check my profile with OpenPath. If I don’t have availability, then you can also search other therapists who do have openings. https://openpathcollective.org/clinicians/brian-gieringer/

Privacy

  1. Client Privacy and Confidentiality is of the highest priority and client information is strictly guarded.

  2. Before or at the first visit all patients will receive a copy of my Privacy Policy and Confidentiality rules. My office applies with all applicable laws and ethical guidelines.

  3. Our conversations are private and confidential, except where the sharing of records is required by state or federal law, if your safety or livelihood is at immediate risk, or other specific, legally identified/mandated exceptions. A list of these exceptions is included in the Privacy Policy and Confidentiality rules.

  4. If you are using insurance to cover costs, it is a good idea to check with your insurance company so that you understand their privacy policy and situations where they may share records with employers or other companies.

  5. Internet communications are believed to be private, but in some situations your employer may be able to read emails sent over a work server or while using a work computer. Email providers can also be subject to hacking which could compromise privacy.

  6. A detailed description of office and privacy policies is included with an online intake packet that you can read and fill out before your first session.

email:  brian@hillpinecounseling.com --- phone or text:  (404) 786-0415