Practice Policies

  • Late Cancellations/No-show Policy

I strive to provide exceptional care and service to all my clients. In order to ensure availability for all clients and effective scheduling of appointments, I have implemented the following cancellation policy:

  1. Cancellation Notice: I kindly ask that you provide at least 24 hours' notice if you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment. This allows me the opportunity to offer that appointment slot to another client who may be in need of services.

  2. No Show/Late Cancellation Fee: If you fail to cancel your appointment at least 24 hours in advance, or if you do not show up for your appointment, you will be charged a $100 no show/late cancellation fee. This fee must be paid before scheduling any future appointments.

  3. Reason for Policy: This policy is in place to respect my time and the time of other clients. When appointments are cancelled without sufficient notice, it prevents me from offering those times to other individuals who may require care.

  4. How to Cancel: To cancel or reschedule your appointment, please contact me through your headway portal or email me at sam@balancedbrainnp.com at your earliest convenience.

  5. Exceptions: I understand that emergencies and unforeseen circumstances may arise. In such cases, please contact me as soon as possible to discuss your situation.

  • Controlled Substance Policy

Our practice follows strict guidelines when it comes to prescribing controlled substances to ensure the safety and well-being of our patients.

  • Benzodiazepines: Benzodiazepines are not prescribed at this practice under any circumstances.

  • Stimulants: Stimulants are prescribed very minimally and only when absolutely necessary. Non-stimulant options can be discussed as alternatives for treatment.

  • Refills: No early refills will be provided for any controlled substances.

  • Multiple controlled substances:

These policies are in place to promote responsible medication use and to explore the most effective and safe treatment options for our patients.

  • Termination Policy

You may terminate your services at Balanced Brain NP at any time. Balanced Brain NP may also terminate care in the following circumstances:

  1. Non-payment. It is essential to maintain financial responsibility to ensure the sustainability of our practice. If a patient fails to pay for services or continuously carries an outstanding balance on their account, the provider may terminate care. We will make every effort to communicate and resolve any payment issues before reaching this point. Maintaining an up-to-date account is crucial for continuing treatment.

  2. Misuse of prescription medications. Ensuring the safe and effective use of prescription medications is a top priority in our practice. If a patient is found to be misusing their prescription medications, the provider may terminate care. Misuse of medications can have serious health consequences and is not in line with our commitment to your well-being and the integrity of our treatment process. We take this matter seriously to protect your health and maintain a safe treatment environment.

  3. More than 2 no shows or late cancellations with less than 24 hour notice. We are committed to providing timely and effective care to all our patients. However, missed appointments and late cancellations can disrupt our schedule and take valuable time away from other patients who need care. If a patient has two or more no-shows or late cancellations, the provider may terminate care. This policy is in place to ensure we can offer the best possible service to everyone.

  4. Provider feels that a higher level of care is needed. Our primary goal is to provide the most appropriate and effective care for each patient. If the provider determines that a higher level of care is necessary for your safety and well-being, and you refuse this recommendation, the provider may terminate care. This decision will be made if the provider feels that outpatient care is no longer appropriate for your condition. It is essential to follow the provider's recommendations to ensure you receive the care that best meets your needs.

  • Availability and After-Hours Emergencies

I check for voice mail messages during normal business hours. Messages left outside of normal hours of operation will be picked up the next business day. If you are experiencing suicidal or homicidal thoughts, are in crisis, or need immediate help, please call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.

  • Contacting Me

I am often not immediately available by telephone. I do not answer my phone when I am with clients or otherwise unavailable. At these times, you may leave a message on my confidential voicemail and I will return your call once I’ve reviewed your chart, but it may take a day or two for non-urgent matters. I will make every attempt to inform you in advance of planned absences, and provide you with the name and phone number of the mental health professional covering my practice. If I need to cancel an appointment at the last-minute, I will reach out as soon as possible and reschedule, or have a member of my staff connect with you.