Kennebec Counseling Services (KCS) does not provide immediate crisis intervention services. If you find yourself in a crisis, it is essential to seek immediate help. Crisis services can be accessed 24/7 by calling

CRISIS RESPONSE SERVICES at 988 or 1-888-568-1112

These services offer support for urgent mental health needs, including assessment, stabilization, and referral to appropriate care.

Before beginning your treatment journey, we conduct a comprehensive intake assessment. This assessment allows us to gather detailed information about your mental health history, current challenges, and treatment goals. It includes a thorough review of your medical history, psychological assessments, and an evaluation of any co-occurring conditions, such as substance use disorders. The information collected during this assessment helps us develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to meet your specific needs and support your path to recovery.

At KCS, we are deeply committed to providing trauma-informed care. This means that our entire approach is designed with an understanding of the profound impact that trauma can have on an individual’s mental and physical health.

What Does Trauma-Informed Care Mean?

Many of the individuals we serve have experienced significant trauma, including but not limited to physical and sexual abuse, domestic violence, neglect, and other adverse childhood experiences (ACEs). These traumatic events can contribute to a range of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), substance use disorders, eating disorders, chronic health conditions, and interactions with the criminal justice system.

Our Approach:

• Awareness: We recognize that trauma affects individuals in unique ways and can be pervasive, influencing behavior, emotions, and overall well-being.

• Sensitivity: Our staff are trained to identify and respond to trauma triggers, ensuring that our services do not inadvertently re-traumatize individuals. This includes creating a safe and supportive environment where clients feel respected and understood.

• Adaptation: We modify traditional service delivery approaches to accommodate the needs of trauma survivors, incorporating practices that promote healing and empowerment.

Our staff members are held to the highest professional standards, guided by the ethical guidelines specific to their professional licenses and the rigorous Standards of Conduct established by KCS.

• Ethical Practice: Our professionals adhere to strict ethical guidelines to ensure clients receive the highest quality care. This includes maintaining confidentiality, obtaining informed consent, and practicing within the bounds of their professional competencies.

• Continuous Improvement: Staff members engage in ongoing professional development to stay current with the latest research and best practices in behavioral health.

• Accountability: Our Standards of Conduct foster a culture of integrity, accountability, and respect within our organization. You can review these standards in detail on our website at www.kennebeccounseling.com or request a copy from your KCS provider.

To maintain the integrity and confidentiality of your therapeutic sessions, we have specific guidelines regarding the use of cell phones and mobile devices:

• Prohibited Use: Using mobile devices for any purpose other than attending your telehealth appointment is strictly prohibited during sessions. This includes texting, browsing the internet, or engaging in social media.

• Photography and Recording: Taking pictures, videos, or audio recordings of KCS staff and providers during sessions is strictly forbidden unless explicit permission has been granted. Unauthorized recording is a violation of privacy and can result in the termination of your session.

• Compliance: If you are asked to stop using your mobile devices in violation of this policy and refuse to comply, we reserve the right to discontinue the session. Protecting all clients' and staff's privacy and security is a shared responsibility, and we appreciate your cooperation.

To ensure that you are fully prepared for your first appointment, KCS provides a comprehensive set of materials that you should review beforehand:

• Agreement to Use and Pay for Our Services: Detailed terms regarding the financial aspects of your treatment, including payment policies and insurance information.

• Summary of the Rights of Recipients of Mental Health Services: An overview of your rights as a client, including confidentiality, informed consent, and grievance procedures.

• Information about Our Programs and Services: A detailed description of our various programs and services, tailored to meet a wide range of mental health needs.

• Notice of Privacy Practices: This document outlines how your personal health information will be protected and under what circumstances it may be shared in compliance with HIPAA regulations.

• Fee Schedule: This is a clear outline of the costs associated with our services, including any applicable co-pays, fees for missed appointments, and information on sliding scale fees, if applicable.

• Statewide Poison Control Center Number: For your safety, we provide the contact number for the Statewide Poison Control Center: 1-800-222-1222. This number should be used in cases of suspected poisoning or exposure to toxic substances.