Tristen Collins , MA, LPC

 
 

Philosophy & Approach to Counseling:

I understand the counseling process to be a journey. I view my role as coming alongside you in this journey, working together to set goals and facilitate change. Though we may spend some time on the concerns that brought you into counseling, we will also look at the nature of your relationships. I believe that many of our issues are rooted in the complexity of relational issues. This includes looking into the past in order to understand the patterns in the present, with the hope of changing the future. Sessions can also include talking about lifestyle, thoughts, beliefs, feelings, behaviors and spiritual or religious issues according to your need. I approach issues from a holistic perspective, keeping in mind the biological, psychological, social and spiritual dimensions and that these aspects are a part of the healing process.

Education, Training & Experience:

I have a M.A. in counseling from George Fox University and I hold a Bachelor of Science degree from Multnomah University. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Oregon. Major coursework has included Human Growth and Development, Personality and Counseling Theories, Marriage and Family Therapy, Psychopathology, Human Sexuality, Ethics and Counseling Supervision.

Confidentiality and License:

To maintain my license I am required to participate in frequent continuing education, taking courses with subjects relevant to this profession. I will abide by our Board’s Code of Ethics. I also participate in professional supervision and consultation groups with other licensed therapists and counselors in order to support my work with clients. To improve your treatment, I may also release de-identified treatment information so I can consult with other professionals; your name and identifying information will not be disclosed without your consent. Unless you let me know otherwise, I will not disclose when I have these consultations.

Therapy Relationship:

Therapy is a unique type of relationship. People grow where they feel safe, therefore I will abide by professional boundaries to protect you as a client. I will not initiate contact outside of the therapy context or interact you on social media to protect your confidentiality.

Fees:

My fee is $ 120.00 per 50-minute session. Let me know if you are paying out of pocket or with insurance.  Please let me know if you would like a receipt to turn into your insurance. If you plan to utilize this method, you can contact your insurance in advance to clarify information on reimbursement. A reduced fee is available for counseling on a limited basis. The payment for counseling is due before each session. You will be charged the full fee if less than 24-hour notice is given for non-emergency cancellations.

Technology-Assisted Services (Phone and Email):

My business phone is a cell phone. It is available for appointments but it is not a 24 hour, 7 days a week emergency line. I am open to phone sessions and communication through email. If you chose to communicate through these means there are risks in maintaining confidentiality of electronic transmitted communications. It is important to note that the most secure form of contact (aside from in-person) is a telephone landline.  Cell phone calls, texts, and emails can all be vulnerable to unauthorized access, and it becomes more difficult to ensure confidentiality.  I take steps to ensure the confidentiality of emails and my Google Voice phone number (e.g., passwords, 2-step verification where appropriate); however, clients should note that these are not HIPAA-compliant forms of contact.

In the event of an emergency or crisis, you may try to call me.  If I don’t immediately answer, and it is a life-threatening situation or other crisis, please immediately call 9-1-1, go to the nearest emergency room, call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline (800-273-8255), or call their local County Crisis Helpline (e.g., Clackamas County at 503-655-8585 or San Bernardino at 888-743-1478). Unfortunately, I’m not able to provide 24-hour availability.

Termination:

If at any point during psychotherapy, I find that I’m not effective in helping a client reach his or her therapeutic goals, I will discuss this with you, and, if appropriate, terminate treatment. In such a case, I will provide appropriate referrals and even speak to the therapist of the client’s choice if her or she authorizes this in writing.  Other reasons for termination include a conflict of interest developing, clients failing to pay the fee on a timely basis, clients’ needs which are outside of my experience or training, or by mutual agreement. Given that termination is a significant part of any treatment, it is important to plan for time to discuss and process termination.  While clients have the right to terminate therapy at any time, they are encouraged to avoid abrupt endings by discussing termination in at least one final session.

Bill of Rights:

  • To expect that a licensee has met the minimal qualifications of training and experience required by state law:

  • To examine public records maintained by the Board and to have the Board confirm credentials of a licensee;

  • To obtain a copy of the Code of Ethics;

  • To report complaints to the Board;

  • To be informed of the cost of professional services before receiving the services;

  • To be assured of privacy and confidentiality while receiving services as defined by rule and law, including the following exceptions:

  1. Reporting child abuse;

  2. Reporting imminent danger to client or others;

  3. Reporting information required in court proceedings or by client’s insurance company;

  4. Providing information concerning licensee case consultation or supervision;

  5. Defending claims brought by client against licensee.

  • To be free from being the object of discrimination on the basis of race, religion, gender, or other unlawful category while receiving services.

You may contact: Board of Licensed Professional Counselors and Therapists, 321 Pringle Road SE #160, Salem, OR 97302-6312, Telephone: (503) 378-5499

If you have any questions, please direct them to your therapist. To indicate you have read and understood the information presented please sign this form. It will be kept in your confidential records and copy can be given to you upon request.