FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions for Clients Entering Treatment
Please note: Youth Contact reserves the right to refuse services to any client if a client is a danger to self or others. In such an event, a meeting with the family will take place to assess appropriate actions and an attempt will be made to assist with another referral.
What happens if I miss an appointment?
Please inform us with at least 24 hours notice if you will be unable to attend an appointment. You may speak to a receptionist or leave a message on our after-hours voice mail. You do not need to speak directly to your counselor to cancel or reschedule an appointment.
What happens if I can’t pay my fee?
Client fees are negotiated based upon the family’s ability to pay. Please speak to your therapist if you find that you might have difficulty making a payment after the fee has been agreed upon. We encourage you to discuss this with us and not drop out of treatment based upon an inability to pay.
What should I do if I have an emergency or crisis?
In the event of a life-threatening emergency or immediate threat to physical safety, please call 911 and inform your counselor of the circumstances when you become able to do so.
If a crisis occurs during office hours, contact us for assistance at (503) 640-4222. If your counselor is unavailable, your concern may be directed to another treatment staff in order to assist you in the most timely manner.
If a crisis occurs when Youth Contact is closed, please call the Providence Crisis Line at (503) 291-9111.
What should I do if I am dissatisfied with the services at Youth Contact, or feel that my rights have been violated in any way as a client here?
Youth Contact is committed to providing excellent treatment services. Please talk to your counselor about your concern if you feel able to do so. We provide a description of the Youth Contact grievance procedure in the enrollment packet for new clients. Please request another copy if needed.
What happens if I use drugs and/or alcohol while I am in treatment?
In any of our programs, it is expected that you will not attend appointments while under the influence of substances. Additionally, any use of drug and alcohol during your treatment will be addressed in conjunction with parents/guardians to determine an appropriate consequence. If your participation in treatment involves your school or the juvenile department, you should be aware that these programs may impose other consequences as well.
What happens if I don’t complete the treatment plan developed with my therapist?
Your treatment plan will be developed with input from you and your parents/guardians after meeting with your therapist several times to discuss your needs. The purpose of the plan is to establish achievable goals that will make a difference in your life and in your family. It is also a guide to help you get done with your treatment, since it is our intention to make your length of treatment as brief as possible. Your decision to complete or not complete treatment goals may impact whether you are considered to be successfully complete when you end counseling. This may result in consequences if you are involved in treatment as a result of the juvenile department or your school referring you here. Please discuss any concerns that might have about your treatment plan once it is developed with your therapist.