Terms & Conditions

1. Acceptance of Terms

By accessing and using the Essential Connections Counseling, LLC website and services, you accept and agree to be bound by these Terms and Conditions. If you do not agree to these terms, please do not use our website or services.

2. Services Description

Essential Connections Counseling, LLC provides mental health counseling services including individual therapy, couples counseling, and family therapy. Services are provided by Josh Smith, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), Colorado License #MFT.0001494.

3. Professional Relationship

3.1 Therapeutic Relationship

The relationship between therapist and client is professional and therapeutic. It is not a social or personal relationship. The therapist-client relationship exists exclusively during scheduled sessions and related professional communications.

3.2 Scope of Services

Our services are not a substitute for emergency services. If you are experiencing a mental health emergency, please call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room. For crisis support, contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988.

4. Appointments and Cancellations

4.1 Scheduling

Appointments are scheduled by mutual agreement between the therapist and client. Session times are reserved exclusively for you.

4.2 Cancellation Policy

We require at least 24 hours notice for cancellations or rescheduling. Late cancellations or no-shows may be subject to a fee.

5. Fees and Payment

5.1 Session Fees

The fee for therapy sessions is $150 per 50-minute session for individuals, couples, and families. Payment is due at the time of service unless other arrangements have been made in advance.

5.2 Insurance

We accept Medicaid and self-pay clients. We can provide a superbill for insurance reimbursement for other insurance plans. You are responsible for understanding your insurance coverage and any out-of-pocket costs.

6. Confidentiality

All information disclosed in therapy sessions is confidential and protected under state and federal law, including HIPAA. Exceptions to confidentiality include:

• Suspected abuse or neglect of a child, elderly person, or dependent adult
• Serious threat of harm to self or others
• Court order or subpoena
• When you provide written authorization to release information

7. Text Messaging Terms (A2P Compliance)

7.1 Consent to Receive Messages

By providing your phone number and checking the consent box on our contact forms, you explicitly consent to receive transactional text messages from Essential Connections Counseling related to services you requested. This includes appointment reminders, responses to inquiries, and service-related notifications.

7.2 Message Frequency

Message frequency varies based on your interaction with our services. You may receive messages in response to your inquiries and scheduled appointment reminders.

7.3 Message and Data Rates

Message and data rates may apply. These charges are determined by your mobile carrier and are your responsibility.

7.4 Opt-Out Instructions

You can opt-out of text messages at any time by replying STOP to any message from us. You will receive a confirmation message confirming your opt-out. After opting out, you will no longer receive text messages unless you re-subscribe.

7.5 Help

For assistance with text messages, reply HELP to any message or contact us at (720) 894-3965.

7.6 Carrier Liability

We are not liable for delayed or undelivered messages. Carriers are not liable for delayed or undelivered messages.

7.7 A2P 10DLC Compliance

Our text messaging service complies with Application-to-Person (A2P) 10-Digit Long Code (10DLC) regulations and carrier requirements. We use registered business messaging services for all text communications.

7.8 Privacy and Security

Text messages are subject to the same confidentiality protections as other forms of communication with our practice, as outlined in our Privacy Policy. However, text messaging is not completely secure and there is some risk that messages could be intercepted.

8. Telehealth Services

We offer both in-person and online therapy sessions. Telehealth sessions are conducted via secure video conferencing. You are responsible for ensuring you have a private, secure location for telehealth sessions.

9. Termination

Either party may terminate the therapeutic relationship at any time. We will provide appropriate referrals if you choose to discontinue services. We reserve the right to terminate services if fees are not paid or if the therapeutic relationship is no longer beneficial.

10. Limitation of Liability

While we strive to provide the highest quality care, we cannot guarantee specific results from therapy. Our liability is limited to the amount of fees paid for services.

11. Website Use

This website is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The use of this website does not create a therapist-client relationship.

12. Intellectual Property

All content on this website, including text, graphics, logos, and images, is the property of Essential Connections Counseling, LLC and is protected by copyright law.

13. Changes to Terms

We reserve the right to modify these Terms and Conditions at any time. Changes will be posted on this page with an updated effective date.

14. Governing Law

These Terms and Conditions are governed by the laws of the State of Colorado. Any disputes will be resolved in the courts of Colorado.

15. Contact Information

For questions about these Terms and Conditions, please contact: