Artificial intelligence (AI) and Session Recording
Sessions are never recorded or shared with any third party. Big Mountain Mental Health, PLLC does not use AI with any client information in any way at any time.
Waitlist
If Sam is not currently accepting new clients you may be offered a spot on the waitlist. When an opening becomes available, Sam will reach out using your preferred method of contact. You will have one week to respond before being removed from the waitlist. If you are unable to start at that time, you are welcome to remain on the waitlist for a future opening.
Names remain on the waitlist for up to three months. After three months, Sam will send a brief email letting you know you’ve come off the list. You are always welcome to reach out again if you are still seeking therapy.
Cancellation and no-shows
At least 24 hours’ notice is required to cancel or reschedule a session. Notice may be given by phone, text, or email.
Cancellations made with less than 24 hours’ notice, and missed sessions without contact, are charged at the full session rate. Insurance does not cover missed sessions, so this amount is the client’s responsibility regardless of the usual copay. Exceptions for unexpected emergencies are made at Sam’s discretion.
Confidentiality
Information shared in therapy is confidential. No information about a client or their treatment is released without written authorization, except in the limited circumstances required or permitted by law: suspected abuse or neglect of a child, elder, or person with a developmental disability; a credible threat of serious harm to an identifiable person; an imminent risk of harm to oneself that cannot be managed within treatment; or a valid court order. Insurers also require certain information for billing purposes.
Sam will generally make a good faith effort to discuss any disclosure of information for reporting purposes prior to or at the time of disclosure, i.e. informing a client that he is ethically obligated to report suspected abuse or neglect to CPS and offering the client an opportunity to participate in that process where possible.
A full Notice of Privacy Practices describes how health information may be used and disclosed and your rights under HIPAA and Montana law.
Working with minors
Sam works with adolescents ages 14 to 18. Under Montana law, minors age 16 and older may consent to outpatient mental health treatment on their own. For clients under 16, a parent or legal guardian must provide consent for treatment.
Parents and guardians of minor clients are generally considered part of the client relationship in Montana, and Sam will attempt to keep them informed of treatment progress in general terms. Specific information shared by the minor in session will be protected. The limits of confidentiality for minors are discussed with both the minor and their parent or guardian at the outset of treatment.
In a crisis
If you are in crisis, please call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline), call 911, or go to your nearest emergency room.
Sam is not an emergency or crisis service. If you are having thoughts of suicide or self-harm, or are otherwise in crisis, please use the resources above rather than relying on contact through this practice.