·       Request and receive full information about the therapist’s professional capabilities, including licensure,
education, training, experience, professional association membership, specialization, and limitations.

·     Have written information about fees, method of payment, insurance reimbursement, number of sessions, substitutions (in cases of vacation and emergencies) and cancellation policies before beginning therapy.

·       Receive respectful treatment that will be helpful to you.

·       A safe environment, free from sexual, physical, emotional abuse.

·       Ask questions about your therapy.

·       Refuse to answer any question or disclose any information you choose not to reveal.

·       Request and receive information from the therapist about your progress.

·       Know the limits of confidentiality and the circumstances in which a therapist is legally required to
discloseinformation to others.

·     Know if there are supervisors, consultants, students, or others with whom your therapist will discuss your case.

·       Refuse a particular type of treatment, or end treatment without obligation or harassment.

·       Refuse electronic recording (but you may request it if you wish).

·       Request and (in most cases) receive a summary of your file, including the diagnosis, your progress, and the type of treatment.

·       Report unethical and illegal behavior by a therapist.

·       Receive a second opinion at any time about your therapy or therapist’s methods.

·       Have a copy of your file transferred to any therapist or agency you choose.

                                      Reprinted with permission from the Board of Psychology, California Department of Consumer Affairs