Having Gus as part of your treatment is entirely optional. If you are allergic to dogs, or simply prefer not to integrate Gus, that is perfectly acceptable.
If you so choose to utilize animal-assisted therapy (AAT), the session will parallel a typical session, with the exception of Gus in the room. Much scientific evidence supports how the presence of an animal provides a calming focal point for therapy. Other sessions, if requested by the patient, may be specifically designed to integrate Gus into session, and will be guided by the therapist. The therapist, Holly Blackburn, will be completing training to obtain a Certificate in Animal Assisted Psychotherapy (CAAP) to ensure interventions are up-to-date and easily assimilated into the treatment process.
What happens when you arrive:
Please print off the forms located under the 'Forms' tab to bring with you prior to your first appointment. Plan to arrive about 15 minutes before your scheduled hour to allot time to fill out additional information.
You will be greeted by either myself or my receptionist, Sue or Rita.
We will take a copy of your insurance card, and it is highly recommended to call your insurance company prior to the appointment to ensure your services are covered. I will take a copy of your insurance card as well.
After all forms are signed, the initial assessment could span up to 55 minutes. Upon completion I will provide a summary of findings, including diagnostic information that will help guide treatment and therapy.
If I find I am unable to provide services, I will alert you and your assessment will be faxed to a provider of your choosing. Such cases might include lack of expertise in specific treatment modalities better suited to meet your needs, requiring a higher level of care than I am able to provide on an outpatient basis, etc. If you feel I am not a good fit, please let me know, and I will help you locate a new therapist to ensure you have the best therapy experience possible.
I will allow time for referral process at the close of session if this is the case, as well as time for questions and feedback.
Please note, I am firm on any and all 24 hour or late cancellation fees, and these will be enforced. If this sounds unreasonable, I have a list of providers I am able to provide to suit needs requested. Such cases might include charging for last-minute work or school conflict with your appointment, failing to provide adequate time for canceling if you are sick, etc. Fee waived for inpatient hospitalization or hazardous weather. Charging a fee is not something I enjoy doing, but is a way to keep all clients accountable to the contract we have in place together. I will work hard to provide the best services possible for you.
To schedule an initial appointment or follow up session, email Counseling@HolenBlackburn.com or call 765-789-0788 .