Practice Policies

PBHG does not accept dual insurance coverage. For example, if you are covered by both Medicaid and Medicare, you are considered to have dual insurance. In such cases, Medicare is designated as the primary payer, and Medicaid will not cover your services. 

If you are seeking services covered by Medicare, please inform us, and we will gladly provide you with alternative resources or refer you to agencies that accept dual insurance coverage. Your access to care is important to us, and we are committed to helping you find the support you need.

PBHG uses a HIPPA compliant Electronic Health Records platform to engage clients in their care. We aim to communicate with you efficiently, which may include phone calls, emails, or text messages. However, please note that these communication methods carry inherent privacy risks. We advise against using email for emergencies, urgent matters, or sensitive information. Appointment reminders, statement notifications, and general information may be sent via email, text, or phone call.

PBHG provides behavioral health services through secure video calls, phone calls, and other electronic methods to make services accessible. These sessions require private space and reliable technology (e.g., computer or smartphone). While PBHG uses HIPAA-compliant platforms to protect your information, online communication carries some risks, such as unauthorized access or breaches due to unsecured internet or outdated software.

Emails are used for scheduling and general information. Some telehealth options that are not HIPAA-compliant may not have the same level of protection for your information. These systems might not use the highest security measures and could be more at risk for unauthorized access. They may also store your data in places that have different privacy rules, which could mean less control over how your information is stored or deleted. It’s important to understand these risks and choose the option that makes you feel comfortable. Always try to have your sessions in a private space to help keep your information safe and confidential.

Parents and guardians are strongly encouraged to participate in minors’ treatment. In Maryland, minors aged 12 and older may consent to their own mental health treatment. If the provider assesses that the minor is mature and capable of providing informed consent, they may seek and receive treatment independently, as an adult would. It is at the counselor’s or therapist’s professional discretion to determine if, when, and how to inform parents and guardians, except in cases where the provider believes that such disclosure would cause harm to the minor.

You have the right to terminate the therapeutic relationship at any time. While your counselor or therapist may wish to discuss this decision with you, you are free to discontinue treatment. Upon termination, you will be provided with a list of community providers and, if appropriate, refer back to your original referral source. Please note that you will be responsible for any outstanding fees for services already rendered.