Virtual Coaching Terms and Conditions

The Smalley Institute is committed to providing quality services to our clients and the information necessary to be informed about the coaching process. If you have any questions regarding anything on this page, please email us at [email protected].

PHILOSOPHY

The Smalley Institute operates under the belief that sensitivity, professionalism, and respect for human dignity are fundamental to addressing the spiritual and emotional needs of individuals, couples, and families. The staff at the Smalley Institute will respect the beliefs, whatever they may be, of all clients. We see people from many different faith traditions and believe through creating authentic relationships individuals can integrate their beliefs into a healthier emotional and spiritual lifestyle.

SMALLEY VIRTUAL COACHING

The relationship that exists between a Virtual Coach and a client is professional rather than social. Therefore, contact with your Coach will only take place in the provision of a professional service. In order to assist in the needs of your family, it may be necessary to refer you to other agencies or professionals. If necessary, we will assist you in facilitating these referrals. Your written consent is required to disclose any information about you or your family to professionals outside of the Smalley Institute.

Smalley Virtual Coaching is an opportunity for healing and personal growth. We believe both you and your partner possess the ability to do what is necessary to take an active role in this process. In order to receive the maximum benefits of coaching, your participation is imperative. During the virtual coaching, we may recommend books for you to read, offer handouts, or use techniques to facilitate personal growth. We encourage you to discuss with your coach any approach, technique, or practice with which you have questions, concerns or need clarification. We commend you on putting your faith in God and giving him the opportunity to start healing your relationships. We are honored you have chosen us to assist you in your personal growth.

SCHEDULING

Virtual Coaching is by appointment only. You are responsible for keeping your appointment and arriving on time. There are no refunds accepted within 72 hours of a scheduled session for any reason. You will be charged the full amount for any appointment not canceled or rescheduled. Smalley Institute retains the right to discontinue services if you have missed more than two consecutive appointments if you do not pay your coaching fees in a timely manner, if it is clear you are receiving no benefits from coaching, if you exhibit abusive behavior, if you engage in criminal behavior, or if you knowingly violate the confidentiality of Smalley Institute clients.

PAYMENT

Fees must be paid at the time you book coaching. Assessments and evaluations may incur a separate cost.

CONFIDENTIALITY

Confidentiality is described as keeping private information shared between a client and his/her coach. Coaching sessions at Smalley Institute are strictly confidential. Information regarding your coaching session will not be discussed, without your permission, beyond the staff at Smalley Institute.

The following describes those situations in which the Smalley Institute is required to break confidentiality. Instances of suspected or known child abuse, abuse to the elderly or disabled, sexual exploitation by other counselors, misconduct or unethical behavior while in a hospital or residential unit, or knowledge that a client is a danger to himself/ herself or to someone else. In any of the previous situations, the coach must report the suspicion or knowledge of abuse to the proper licensing board or authorities. Additionally, court orders requiring the release of counseling records may result in the release of those records.

Participants who are in couple’s coaching sessions, and are or become involved in individual sessions, will have discretion over their own information becoming part of a session involving other family members.

DISCLOSURE REGARDING DIVORCE AND CUSTODY LITIGATION

If you are involved in divorce or custody litigation, the coach's role is not to make recommendations to the court concerning divorce, custody, or parenting issues. By agreeing to these Terms and Conditions, you agree not to subpoena your coach to court for testimony or for disclosure of coaching information in such litigation; and you agree not to request your coach write any reports to the court or to your attorney, making recommendations concerning custody or divorce proceedings.  If your coach is called to testify or asked to write reports, the fee is $2000.00 per day, with a 1-day minimum fee assessed.

CONSENT TO DISCLOSE INFORMATION

If at any time you have the need for your coach to consult with other professionals or agencies on your behalf, your signed consent to disclose information to other agencies and/or individuals will be required. Exceptions may include requests made by the court and/or a subpoena. If you have received or are currently receiving mental health services and/or psychotropic medications from another health care provider please inform your coach. Your success may depend on our ability to communicate with these professionals.

CONCLUSION

I have read and understood the above information and agree to voluntarily enter myself into coaching services at Smalley Institute. I understand the limits of confidentiality and understand those limits also apply in the coaching of a minor.