A psychologist-client relationship does not exist until after an initial session is completed and we have decided to move ahead as evidenced by your signature on a disclosure form. It is important that we agree that we will be able to successfully work together to accomplish your goals and we will discuss steps for completing a comprehensive evaluation.

Confidentiality

Generally speaking, the information provided by and to the client during assessment and consultation sessions is legally confidential and cannot be released without the client’s consent. There are exceptions to this confidentiality that will be discussed during your initial session.

Evaluation Services

Psychological testing and evaluation have many purposes, including but not limited to, identifying an individual’s areas of strength and weakness, diagnosing a mental disorder, developing interventions and recommendations, and determining eligibility for programs or services. At Summit, we use a variety of psychological testing instruments, as well as interviews, observations, file review and, when possible, collaboration with other service providers in order to use our clinical judgment. There are no guarantees about the outcome of the psychological evaluation.

Payment and Insurance

Comprehensive evaluation fees are set by the referral question, type and level of assessment needed, and range between $3000 and $3500. Payment is expected at the time of service. We accept cash, checks and all major credit cards. Payment plans can be discussed during your initial intake session.

• The initial session is billed at $150/hour.
• The total cost of the evaluation will be set depending on the specific details of your case.
• Half of the total cost of the evaluation bust be received at the end of the initial appointment prior to scheduling additional sessions.
• Final payment is due after the final testing session.
• Final report review and feedback session will be 90 minutes and any time over will be charged $150/hour in 15-minute increments.
• If a payment plan is needed, please discuss an option of a 3 or 4-month installment option.
• Credit card will be kept on file until payment is received in full. Credit card will be charged if payment is not received in 90 days. If card payment is declined, amount due will be forwarded to a collection agency.
• Upon request, Summit will provide an itemized invoice of your payment for you to file with your insurance company.

Questions about specific insurance plans, out-of-network benefits, co-payments, deductibles and other related costs should be directed to the mental health affiliate of your insurance company. Reimbursement rates vary depending on your policy. Upon request, we will provide you with an invoice that you can submit to your insurance company that will assist with reimbursement.

Social Media

To protect your privacy and respect the boundaries of a professional relationship, we will not knowingly participate in any relationship with clients on a social media platform, and any such request will be declined. Please be aware that any comments or information posted on social media regarding services at Summit may be seen by others, and may compromise your confidentiality. We maintain a professional presence for our practice on Facebook. This presence exists solely to provide information to the public pertaining to Summit and related topics. It also assists in directing interested individuals to the official practice website for Summit.

Consent to Service

A child under the age of 12 must have a parent or legal guardian consent to the evaluation services being provided. If parents are legally married, either parent may provide informed consent for evaluation services. We make efforts to contact each parent and involve both parents in the evaluation process. When parents or legal guardians are divorced or separated, they are required to provide a copy of the custody agreement or court order that grants “decision-making authority” to consent to psychological services. Failure to provide a copy of the custody agreement or court order will result in immediate termination of services. You are responsible for notifying your psychologist immediately of any proceedings that affect your parenting rights and custody arrangements.