Contractor Key Policies and Disclaimers Summary

Effective Date: March 20, 2025
Applies To: All U.S.-based clients, users, and independent contractors

At Empowered Harmony Counseling, Psychiatry & Wellness Center, transparency and client protection are at the heart of our practice. Please review the following disclaimers, which outline the terms and limitations of our services, privacy practices, and digital communications.

Important Notice

This summary of disclaimers and policies is provided for general informational purposes only. It does not substitute the full legal, clinical, or operational policies of Empowered Harmony Counseling, Psychiatry & Wellness Center.

It is the responsibility of all patients, providers, and affiliated personnel to read and understand all complete policy documents, including procedures, terms of service, and informed consent agreements. Failure to review the full documentation throughout the website, etc., does not release anyone from their legal, financial, or ethical obligations under those policies.

If you have questions or need clarification, please get in touch with our administrative team before receiving or delivering services.

1. Clinical Relationship Disclaimer

Using this website, or communicating with our team via email, phone, or social media, does not create or imply a therapeutic relationship. A formal therapeutic relationship is only established once all required documentation has been completed, including signed consent forms, and a clinical appointment has been scheduled and confirmed. Informational contact does not constitute medical or mental health advice or treatment.

2. Crisis Support Disclaimer

Empowered Harmony Counseling, Psychiatry & Wellness Center is not a crisis center and does not offer emergency response services. If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health emergency, please call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room immediately. You may also call or text 988 to reach the 24-hour Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, which provides free and confidential support.

3. HIPAA and Telehealth Limitations Notice

We maintain full compliance with HIPAA and implement industry-standard measures to protect your personal health information. However, by participating in telehealth services, you acknowledge that there are inherent risks, such as technical disruptions, breaches, or unauthorized access, that are beyond our control. Patients are encouraged to use secure internet connections and maintain privacy during telehealth sessions.

4. Scope of Practice and Licensing Disclaimer

All clinical services are provided by licensed professionals whose practice is governed by state-specific licensing boards. Services are limited to the scope of the provider’s credentials and licensure. Clients are responsible for confirming that their assigned provider is legally authorized to deliver services in their state or location. We cannot offer care outside of the jurisdictions where we are authorized to operate.

5. Sliding Scale and Financial Agreement Disclaimer

Sliding scale services are available on a limited basis and subject to verification. Eligibility must be proven through accepted documentation and may be reviewed annually or upon request. Empowered Harmony Counseling, Psychiatry and Wellness Center and its providers reserve the right to revoke or modify sliding scale participation at any time.

All clients receiving sliding scale services must pay the full session fee in advance. Patients are required to maintain a zero balance. Sliding scale rates apply only to psychotherapy sessions and do not extend to psychiatric, coaching, or other specialty services.

No-show and late cancellation fees apply to all clients, regardless of their sliding scale status. A 24-hour cancellation policy is strictly enforced. Patients on a sliding scale, who fail to attend or cancel outside of this window, will be charged the full session fee.

6. Third-Party Website Disclaimer

Our website may contain links to external websites and resources. These links are provided for informational purposes only. Empowered Harmony Counseling, Psychiatry and Wellness Center does not endorse, monitor, or assume responsibility for the accuracy, practices, or content of third-party websites. Visiting these sites is done at your own discretion.

7. Non-Discrimination Statement

Empowered Harmony Counseling, Psychiatry & Wellness Center is committed to providing an inclusive, equitable, and respectful environment for all. We do not discriminate based on race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, marital status, veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic.

8. Testimonial Disclaimer

Any testimonials, patient feedback, or success stories featured on our website, marketing materials, or social media platforms represent the personal experiences of individual patients. These accounts are shared with permission and do not guarantee similar outcomes for all clients. Therapy results vary based on individual needs and circumstances.

9. Artificial Intelligence and Automation Disclaimer

To enhance efficiency and client service, Empowered Harmony Counseling, Psychiatry and Wellness Center may use secure artificial intelligence and automation tools for tasks such as appointment scheduling, intake processing, and administrative communication. These tools are designed to support, not replace, clinical decision-making or personal consent. All automated tools used are HIPAA-aligned and monitored for compliance.

10. Governing Law and Arbitration
This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Georgia, with venue in Metro Atlanta, without regard to conflict of law principles. Any disputes arising from or related to this Agreement shall be resolved through binding arbitration in Metro Atlanta, Georgia, in accordance with the rules of the American Arbitration Association. Judgment on the arbitrator’s award may be entered in any court of competent jurisdiction. All terms shall be enforced in accordance with applicable state and federal law. In the event of a conflict, provisions shall be interpreted to preserve the intent of this Agreement and ensure legal compliance.

11. Technology and Third Party Services Disclaimer
Empowered Harmony Counseling, Psychiatry and Wellness Center (“EHC”) utilizes third-party platforms for scheduling, billing, telehealth, and communication. EHC is not liable for service interruptions, technical failures, or damages caused by these platforms unless explicitly stated in a separate written agreement assigning such responsibility to EHC.

12. State Law Compliance
All terms of this Agreement shall be interpreted and enforced in compliance with applicable state and federal laws. Any clause determined to conflict with such laws shall be modified to the minimum extent necessary to maintain compliance while preserving the original intent of this policy and the provider contract agreement.

13. Trademark Notice

Empowered Harmony Counseling, Psychiatry & Wellness Center™ is a registered trademark of Empowered Harmony Counseling, Psychiatry and Wellness Center. All names, logos, taglines, branding, and service marks associated with Empowered Harmony are protected under United States trademark law.

Any unauthorized use, imitation, or reproduction of this trademark in whole or in part, whether for commercial, educational, or personal purposes, is strictly prohibited and may result in legal action.

14. Psychology Today

Contractors are solely responsible for maintaining and updating the information on their Psychology Today profile and other professional profiles, including accuracy, availability status, and contact details. EHC is not liable for any misrepresentation, outdated information, or client confusion resulting from the contractor’s profile.

All inquiries received through EHC’s administrative channels, regardless of who the patient initially requests, are managed at the discretion of EHC and may be reassigned to other providers as needed to ensure timely access to care.

Patients who engage with EHC through central platforms, directories, or referral sources are considered EHC patients unless and until care is formally established independently outside of the EHC system.

15. Non-Solicitation

Contractors may not solicit or redirect EHC patients outside of the platform for personal or private practice purposes. Doing so may be considered a breach of contract and grounds for termination.

Disclaimer:
The Key Policies summary is provided for general reference only and does not replace the full Terms and Conditions, legal policies, provider contract, disclaimers, or any other official documentation. For complete and legally binding information, please refer to the full contractual and policy documents.

Policy Updates Clause

EHC may revise policies as needed to maintain legal compliance and operational integrity. The most recent version will always appear on the official website. Continued use of services signifies acceptance of updates.

EHC shall not be held liable for delays, outages, or interruptions caused by factors beyond its control, including illness, power or internet failure, or natural disaster.

© 2025 Empowered Harmony Counseling, Psychiatry & Wellness Center™. All rights reserved.
All materials, including text, graphics, forms, digital content, videos, and documentation created by or for Empowered Harmony Counseling, Psychiatry & Wellness Center™, are the exclusive property of the company.

No portion may be copied, distributed, reproduced, modified, or used for commercial purposes without prior written permission from Empowered Harmony Counseling, Psychiatry & Wellness Center™.

Former Client Employment and Contracting Policy

Empowered Harmony Counseling, Psychiatry & Wellness Center

Real Solutions for Real Life

Purpose

This policy protects clients, providers, and Empowered Harmony Counseling, Psychiatry & Wellness Center by preventing dual relationships, conflicts of interest, and ethical violations. The policy follows the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) Code of Ethics and industry standards for mental health practices.

Policy Statement

A current or former therapy client may become an independent contractor or provider with Empowered Harmony Counseling, Psychiatry & Wellness Center only when the clinical relationship has fully ended and all ethical requirements have been met.

Requirements

1. No Active Client May Be Considered for Contracting

A person who is currently receiving therapy or psychiatric services through Empowered Harmony Counseling, Psychiatry & Wellness Center cannot be recruited, interviewed, or considered for any role.

2. Clinical Relationship Must Be Fully Terminated

Before any employment or contracting can be explored:

The therapeutic relationship must be formally ended.
A discharge note must be completed in the clinical record.
The reason for discharge must be documented, such as service completion or client request.
Appropriate referrals must be provided.

The termination must be free from pressure, influence, or suggestion about future employment.

3. Cooling Off Period

A former client may not be considered for an employment or contractor role until a reasonable cooling off period has passed.

Empowered Harmony Counseling, Psychiatry & Wellness Center uses a minimum nine (9) month cooling off period.

A longer period may be required if the clinical relationship was intensive or involved trauma work.

4. Client Must Initiate Interest

The former client must independently express interest in employment.

Staff may not solicit or encourage clients to work for the practice during or shortly after treatment.

5. No Influence From Clinical Relationship

All hiring, credentialing, and contracting decisions must be based solely on qualifications, experience, and practice needs.

Information from the former client’s treatment record cannot be used in the hiring process.

6. Protection of Confidentiality

The individual’s status as a former client remains confidential.

Their clinical records remain sealed and unavailable to hiring staff.

No staff member may reference or disclose their past client status.

7. No Conflicts of Interest

The former client may not provide services to former group members, family members, or individuals with whom the previous therapeutic relationship may have impacted.

They may not receive supervision from their former therapist.

8. Documentation Requirements

Before onboarding:

A supervisor or compliance officer must verify the discharge date.
Eligibility after a nine-month cooling-off period must be documented.
The candidate must sign an ethical acknowledgment stating they understand the boundaries and confidentiality protections.

9. Exceptions

Any exception must be reviewed by the compliance department and approved in writing. Exceptions are rare and must show no risk of exploitation or harm.

Policy Updates Clause

EHC may revise policies as needed to maintain legal compliance and operational integrity. The most recent version will always appear on the official website. Continued use of services signifies acceptance of updates.

EHC shall not be held liable for delays, outages, or interruptions caused by factors beyond its control, including illness, power or internet failure, or natural disaster.

© 2025 Empowered Harmony Counseling, Psychiatry & Wellness Center™. All rights reserved.
All materials, including text, graphics, forms, digital content, videos, and documentation created by or for Empowered Harmony Counseling, Psychiatry & Wellness Center™, are the exclusive property of the company.

No portion may be copied, distributed, reproduced, modified, or used for commercial purposes without prior written permission from Empowered Harmony Counseling, Psychiatry & Wellness Center™.

Independent Contractor Acknowledgment and Non-Employment Policy

This opportunity is not an employment opportunity.

Participation with Empowered Harmony Counseling, Psychiatry & Wellness Center does not create an employer-employee relationship. All services are provided strictly as an independent contractor.

All contractors must be at least 18 years of age and legally authorized to provide services in the United States.

By moving forward, the contractor confirms they have read, understood, and agree to comply with all company policies, Terms and Conditions, and applicable procedures of Empowered Harmony Counseling, Psychiatry & Wellness Center.

This opportunity does not guarantee work, client referrals, assignments, hours, or income. The contractor is solely responsible for all federal, state, and local taxes. The contractor is responsible for compliance with HIPAA, confidentiality requirements, professional standards, and all applicable state and federal laws and regulations. The contractor is responsible for holding and maintaining all required licenses, certifications, and credentials in good standing.

Company policies may be updated or modified at any time. Contractors are responsible for reviewing and complying with all current policies. Contractors are responsible for providing and maintaining their own equipment, securing internet access, and providing an appropriate workspace.

A contractor relationship is not established until a written independent contractor agreement is fully executed and all onboarding requirements are completed. The individual may not represent themselves as affiliated with Empowered Harmony Counseling, Psychiatry & Wellness Center until this process is complete.

Equal Opportunity and Data Privacy Notice

Empowered Harmony Counseling, Psychiatry & Wellness Center is an Equal Opportunity organization. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, including pregnancy, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or any other status protected by applicable law.

By applying for or engaging in a contract opportunity with Empowered Harmony Counseling, Psychiatry & Wellness Center, you acknowledge that your personal information may be collected and processed for recruitment, evaluation, credentialing, onboarding, compliance, and operational purposes.

By continuing with the onboarding process or services, the individual acknowledges and agrees to the terms of this policy.

Policy Updates Clause

EHC may revise policies as needed to maintain legal compliance and operational integrity. The most recent version will always appear on the official website. Continued use of services signifies acceptance of updates.

EHC shall not be held liable for delays, outages, or interruptions caused by factors beyond its control, including illness, power or internet failure, or natural disaster.

© 2025 Empowered Harmony Counseling, Psychiatry & Wellness Center™. All rights reserved.
All materials, including text, graphics, forms, digital content, videos, and documentation created by or for Empowered Harmony Counseling, Psychiatry & Wellness Center™, are the exclusive property of the company.

No portion may be copied, distributed, reproduced, modified, or used for commercial purposes without prior written permission from Empowered Harmony Counseling, Psychiatry & Wellness Center™.