Legal & Ethical Compliance
Legal & Ethical Compliance
Client Rights, Transparency, and Regulatory Compliance
At Acadia Psychotherapy & Associates, PLLC, we are committed to maintaining the highest legal, ethical, and professional standards of care. In accordance with applicable federal and Texas laws, this section provides important information regarding client rights, access to records, financial transparency, and options for addressing concerns or complaints. Our goal is to support informed decision-making, accountability, and trust throughout the therapeutic process.
HIPAA and Texas Health Information Privacy Laws
The practice complies with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and Texas Health & Safety Code Chapter 181. Client health information is protected and is only used or disclosed as permitted or required by law. Clients are provided a Notice of Privacy Practices describing their rights regarding protected health information and how such information may be used or disclosed.
Your Right to Access Records
Clients have the right to access their health care records in accordance with Texas Health & Safety Code Chapter 181.
How to Request Records
Requests for records must be submitted in writing and should include your full name, date of birth, and the specific records requested. Requests may be submitted via email or, if applicable, through the client portal.
Records Request Email:
admin@acadiapsychotherapy.com
Processing Time
Record requests are processed within the timeframe permitted by Texas law. If you have questions regarding your request, please contact the practice directly.
Fees for Records Requests
A flat fee of $50 per hour is charged for the preparation and electronic delivery of medical records. This fee applies to compiling and sending records to a third party and does not include services such as completing medical or legal forms (e.g., FMLA paperwork) or extended consultations.
License Violation Concerns
The Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council (BHEC) regulates and investigates professional conduct for licensed behavioral health providers in Texas, including marriage and family therapists, professional counselors, psychologists, psychological associates, social workers, and licensed specialists in school psychology. Click here to access the Texas Code.
Not every concern or dispute involves professional misconduct; however, BHEC can provide information regarding whether a concern falls within its jurisdiction and how to file a formal complaint if appropriate.
Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council (BHEC)
Address: 1801 Congress Ave., Suite 7300
Austin, TX 78701
Phone: 1-800-821-3205
https://bhec.texas.gov/contact-us/
Additional information regarding professional standards and the Texas Code may be accessed through official state resources.
Consumer and Business Practice Complaints
Consumers who believe they have experienced unfair, deceptive, or fraudulent business practices may file a complaint with the Office of the Texas Attorney General, Consumer Protection Division, in accordance with Texas law. Click here to learn more about your consumer rights.
The Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division provides information regarding consumer rights and accepts complaints through its official complaint portal.
Good Faith Estimate and No Surprises Act
In accordance with the No Surprises Act, clients who do not use insurance or choose not to use insurance have the right to receive a Good Faith Estimate (GFE) of the total expected cost of services. The estimate includes non-emergency items and services as well as reasonably anticipated related costs.
Clients receive a GFE during intake and informed consent.
A written GFE is provided at least one business day before services.
Clients may request a GFE at any time prior to scheduling services.
If a bill exceeds the GFE by $400 or more, clients may dispute the charges through the federal dispute resolution process.
Session rates and applicable fees are clearly listed on our website and within informed consent documentation to ensure transparency.
For more information, visit CMS No Surprises Ac