A complimentary 15-minute phone consultation is required prior to preparing counselling records, letters, summaries, or other documentation.Purpose of the consultation: This allows us to discuss your needs, informed consent, confidentiality, timelines, and the most appropriate documentation option.
Documentation and records services are separate from counselling session fees. Most requests range from $80 to $136, depending on the complexity, clinical review, and administrative time required.
Services may include records release, clinical summaries, letters, forms, and secure transfer of documentation.
Why Are There Fees for Records Requests?
Preparing counselling records for release involves more than simply sending a file. Clinical records must be carefully reviewed to ensure accuracy, protect confidentiality, comply with ethical and legal obligations, and safeguard the privacy of both clients and third parties.
Documentation requests also require professional judgment, administrative preparation, and time outside of scheduled counselling sessions. Fees help cover the professional and administrative time required to complete these requests responsibly and in accordance with BCACC standards and privacy legislation.
Response Timeline
Requests are processed within 30 days, although more complex requests may require additional time. Clients will be informed if delays are expected.
Limitations to Access
In some situations, portions of a record may need to be withheld or redacted if:
• Releasing the information could reasonably be expected to cause harm to the client or another person
• The record contains confidential information relating to another individual that cannot be shared without consent
These decisions are made carefully in accordance with applicable privacy legislation and BCACC ethical standards.