At what point does a client become your official client? The answer is after they sign the Disclosure/About Me.
Any individual who books an intake is NOT considered an ‘official client’ because, at this point, they have not signed the Disclosure/About Me. This means the clinician-client privileges and confidentiality do NOT protect them. These protections only take effect after the individual has signed both the Disclosure Statement and the About Me document, which will be sent to them by the clinician after the Intake Consultation, if they choose to proceed with treatment.
HIPAA regulations and privacy still protect 'prospective' clients.
During the Intake Appointment, it is expected that the clinician will assess whether the prospective client would benefit from seeking treatment from themselves, another OC clinician, or another mental health facility.
To find another OC clinician who would better suit the client, consider transfering the client.
To find other mental health organizations that would better suit the client, refer to our referral network or Psychology Today.