Terms of Service
Last updated: January 1, 2025
Agreement to Terms
By accessing or using the services of Serenity Mental Health ("we," "us," or "our"), including our website, patient portal, and therapeutic services, you agree to be bound by these Terms of Service. If you do not agree to these terms, please do not use our services.
Description of Services
Serenity Mental Health provides mental health counseling, psychiatric services, and related healthcare services. Our services include individual therapy, couples therapy, family therapy, group therapy, telehealth sessions, psychiatric evaluations, and medication management. Services are provided by licensed mental health professionals.
Eligibility
To use our services, you must:
- Be at least 18 years of age, or have parental/guardian consent
- Be located in a state where our providers are licensed
- Provide accurate and complete information
- Have the legal capacity to enter into this agreement
Appointment and Cancellation Policy
Scheduling
Appointments can be scheduled through our website, patient portal, or by calling our office. Appointment times are confirmed upon booking and are subject to provider availability.
Cancellation Policy
We require at least 24 hours' notice for appointment cancellations or rescheduling. Cancellations made with less than 24 hours' notice, or missed appointments ("no-shows"), may be subject to a cancellation fee:
- Late cancellation (less than 24 hours): $75 fee
- No-show: Full session fee
We understand emergencies happen. Please contact us as soon as possible if you need to cancel or reschedule.
Payment Terms
Payment is due at the time of service unless other arrangements have been made. We accept:
- Credit and debit cards
- HSA/FSA cards
- Insurance (where applicable)
If using insurance, you are responsible for any copays, deductibles, or services not covered by your plan. Outstanding balances not paid within 30 days may be subject to collection.
Telehealth Services
For telehealth appointments, you agree to:
- Be located in a state where your provider is licensed during sessions
- Ensure a private, confidential environment for your session
- Have a stable internet connection and working camera/microphone
- Not record sessions without explicit written consent
- Understand that telehealth has inherent limitations compared to in-person care
Confidentiality and Privacy
Your privacy is extremely important to us. All information shared during therapy is confidential and protected by state and federal law, including HIPAA. There are limited exceptions where we may be required to break confidentiality, including situations involving imminent harm to yourself or others, suspected abuse of children or vulnerable adults, or court orders. Please see our Privacy Policy and HIPAA Notice for more information.
Limitations of Services
Our services are not intended for:
- Emergency or crisis situations (call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room)
- A substitute for emergency medical care
- Treatment of severe psychiatric conditions requiring hospitalization
Crisis Resources
If you are experiencing a mental health emergency, please call 911, go to your nearest emergency room, or contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988.
Intellectual Property
All content on our website, including text, graphics, logos, images, and software, is the property of Serenity Mental Health and is protected by copyright and other intellectual property laws. You may not reproduce, distribute, or create derivative works without our written permission.
Website Use
When using our website, you agree not to:
- Use the site for any unlawful purpose
- Attempt to gain unauthorized access to our systems
- Transmit viruses or malicious code
- Interfere with the proper functioning of the website
- Collect information about other users
Disclaimer of Warranties
Our services and website are provided "as is" without warranties of any kind, either express or implied. We do not guarantee specific results from treatment. Mental health treatment outcomes vary based on individual circumstances, and we cannot guarantee that our services will meet your expectations.
Limitation of Liability
To the fullest extent permitted by law, Serenity Mental Health shall not be liable for any indirect, incidental, special, consequential, or punitive damages arising from your use of our services or website. This limitation applies regardless of the theory of liability.
Indemnification
You agree to indemnify and hold harmless Serenity Mental Health, its employees, and providers from any claims, damages, or expenses arising from your violation of these Terms or your use of our services.
Governing Law
These Terms shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of California, without regard to its conflict of law provisions.
Changes to Terms
We reserve the right to modify these Terms at any time. Changes will be effective immediately upon posting to our website. Continued use of our services after changes constitutes acceptance of the new Terms.
Contact Information
If you have questions about these Terms of Service, please contact us:
Serenity Mental Health
123 Peaceful Lane, Suite 200
Serenity Springs, CA 90210
Phone: (555) 123-4567
Email: info@serenitymentalhealth.com