The global pandemic continues to factor into all social interactions. Walking and gathering outdoors are among the CDC’s safest activities listed for vaccinated and unvaccinated people. The CDC continues to provide updates on the best practices for protecting yourself and others. The decision about whether to engage in outdoor therapy is based on current conditions and guidelines, which may change at any time. It is possible that a return to remote services will be necessary at some point based on health and safety considerations. This decision will be made in consultation with you, but the final determination will be made by the counselor based on a careful weighing of the risks and applicable regulations.

In order to engage in outdoor therapy, the following protocols must be followed by clients and the provider:

• You agree to take certain precautions which will help keep everyone safer from exposure, sickness and possible death. If you do not adhere to these safeguards, it may result in you starting / returning to a telehealth arrangement.

• You agree to only keep your in-person appointment if you are free of COVID-19 symptoms.

• You agree that if you have been exposed to another person who is showing signs of infection or is confirmed to have COVID-19 within the last two weeks you will re-schedule your outdoor session or do a telehealth session instead.

• If you need to cancel within 24 hours due to symptoms or exposure, you will not be charged the normal cancellation fee.

• The mask mandate has been lifted in the State of Oregon as of June 20, 2021; however, if you prefer to wear a face covering, you may request that both parties wear face coverings.

• When possible, social distancing guidelines will be followed. There will be no physical contact (e.g. no shaking hands or hugging) with your counselor.

• If a resident of your home tests positive for the infection, you will immediately inform your counselor and/or our staff and we will then begin or resume treatment via telehealth.

If additional local, state or federal orders or guidelines are published, the above precautions may be changed. If that happens, we will talk about any necessary changes.  

Please be aware that we may become legally required at some point to disclose that you and your counselor have been in contact, especially if either you or your counselor were to test positive or show signs of COVID-19 infection. If we are legally compelled to disclose information, we will inform you and will only provide the minimum necessary information (e.g., your name, contact information, and the dates of contact) required by law.