Terms & Conditions
Overview & Acceptance of Terms
Welcome to the website and services of ShadeTree Counseling, LLC (“we,” “us,” “our”). By accessing our website or engaging our services, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to be bound by these Terms & Conditions as well as any other policies referenced herein (e.g., Privacy Policy).
This document follows recommended structural guidance from Wix’s “Terms & Conditions” help article, including sections like intellectual property, eligibility, and modifications
Eligibility
You must be at least 18 years of age (or the age of majority in Florida) and legally capable of forming binding agreements to use our website or services. Minors should access services with parental or guardian consent, where applicable.
Scope of Services & Limitations
ShadeTree Counseling, LLC provides licensed mental health counseling services within the scope permitted by Florida law. According to Chapter 491 of Florida Statutes, mental health counselors may evaluate, assess, and offer counseling for emotional and behavioral issues—but may not prescribe medications, admit clients to hospitals, perform lab or radiological services, or use procedures such as electroconvulsive therapy unless appropriately trained and licensed. (Florida Senate)
Appointment Terms, Fees & Cancellations
Therapy sessions are provided by appointment only. All fees, billing procedures, payment methods, and cancellation policies will be communicated separately, such as via intake forms or client portals. These details remain subject to change with advance notice to you.
Confidentiality & Legal Disclosures
We respect your confidentiality in accordance with:
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Florida laws and HIPAA standards, which afford psychotherapist–client privilege;
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Exceptions where disclosure is permitted or required—such as with written client consent, to prevent imminent harm, suspected abuse, or by court order/subpoena.
We also comply with record-keeping rules:
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Maintaining full client records for at least 7 years from the last date of contact.
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If the practice closes or relocates, notice is published for four consecutive weeks in the local newspaper and records are maintained for at least two more years.
Professional Conduct & Boundaries
We adhere to best practices in clinical ethics, including:
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Avoiding dual relationships (e.g., personal, social, online) that may harm objectivity.
Maintaining professional boundaries to safeguard effective therapeutic relationships.
Communications & Promotional Consent
By providing your contact information, you agree to receive relevant communications from us—such as appointment reminders, informational updates, or occasional notifications—via email, text, phone, or mail. You may opt out at any time by contacting us directly.
Intellectual Property
All content on our website—including text, logos, graphics, and design—is protected by copyright and owned by ShadeTree Counseling, LLC. Reproduction, distribution, or modification of this content without our express written consent is prohibited.
Termination of Access
We reserve the right to suspend or terminate your access to our website or services if you violate these Terms, engage in unlawful behavior, or undermine the therapeutic process.
Indemnification
You agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless ShadeTree Counseling, LLC, its employees, agents, and partners from any claims, damages, liabilities, costs, or expenses arising from your breach of these Terms or use of our services.
Limitation of Liability
To the fullest extent permitted under Florida law, ShadeTree Counseling, LLC isn’t liable for indirect, consequential, special, or incidental damages arising from your use of our website or services—even if advised of the possibility.
Governing Law & Dispute Resolution
These Terms are governed by the laws of the State of Florida. Any disputes related to these Terms or our services must be resolved in the appropriate courts of St Cloud, Florida.
Modifications to Terms
We may update these Terms occasionally. Significant changes will be communicated via our website or client communications. Continued use of our site or services after changes indicates your acceptance.
Display of Professional Credentials
In compliance with Florida Statutes § 491.0149, our therapists display their professional designation—such as “Licensed Mental Health Counselor” or “LMHC”—on printed and digital materials, signage, and online profiles.
Emergency & Crisis Situations (e.g., Baker Act)
While these Terms govern routine services, we follow all Florida laws in crisis scenarios. In emergent situations—such as risk of self-harm or harm to others—a therapist may take appropriate protective actions aligned with professional and statutory guidelines (e.g., Baker Act protocols).
Contact Information
If you have questions or concerns about these Terms, please reach out:
ShadeTree Counseling, LLC
