Terms of Service

 

1. Introduction & Scope

• These Terms of Service (TOS) govern the provision of professional counselling and psychotherapy services by Megan James Counselling (“we/us”) in Edmonton, Alberta. Services are provided in compliance with the CPCA Code of Ethics (2020) and Standards of Practice (6th ed., 2021) 

2. Professional Standards & Responsibility

• All counselors uphold ethical principles: beneficence, fidelity, non‑maleficence, autonomy, justice, and societal interest.

3. Services Provided

• Individual, couples, youth counselling within our competence and scope.
• Use of in-person, online/virtual, or hybrid formats, following CPCA technology guidelines.
• We do not diagnose medical/psychiatric conditions or prescribe medications—such matters may require a licensed physician or psychiatrist.

4. Client Rights & Informed Consent

• Clients receive information about service nature, goals, limits, fees, confidentiality, and alternatives.
• Consent is voluntary, informed, and ongoing. You may withdraw consent at any time without penalty.

5. Confidentiality & Record‑keeping

• All counselling records are stored securely in compliance with CPCA standards and Alberta privacy laws.
• Clients may request access to their records; we follow CPCA protocols for access, amendment, and retention of records.
• Exceptions include legal mandates (e.g., duty to report harm or child protection requirements).

6. Fees, Payments & Cancellations

• Fee schedule, accepted payment methods, cancellation/rescheduling policy, and insurance reimbursement are set out in the Intake Form.
• Late cancellations or no‑shows may incur a fee unless prior notice (e.g. 24 hours) is provided.

7. Limits of Practice & Referrals

• We operate within our certified scope. If your needs fall outside this, a referral(s) to another qualified provider will be offered.
• We periodically engage in supervision or peer consultation in accordance with CPCA expectations.

8. Use of Technology & Online Counselling

• Tele‑counselling is offered following CPCA technology and ethical guidelines for informed consent, confidentiality, platform security, and emergency planning.
• You are responsible for choosing a private, secure location and maintaining internet privacy during virtual sessions.

9. Emergencies & Crisis

• Our services are not suitable for acute emergencies. In crisis situations, contact 911 (or local emergency services) or visit the nearest hospital.
• Provide crisis contacts and local resources in the client handbook/intake package.

10. Ethical Complaints & Governance

• You may raise concerns or ethical complaints through CPCA’s peer review or disciplinary procedures.
• We are accountable to CPCA’s national ethical framework and cannot decline CPCA investigations if concerns are lodged.

11. Term & Termination

• Either party may terminate counselling at any time. We may end a professional relationship if continuation would be inappropriate or beyond our competence, and we will offer referrals.

12. Modifications to Terms

• We may update these Terms of Service occasionally; clients will be notified in writing and any changes will take effect from the specified effective date.

 

Effective Date: September 1,  2025