Prior to entering therapy relationships, clients should be given a fair and accurate assessment of service fees. I was quoted a copay amount and later charged full price for two sessions. From the beginning, I asked my therapist if she was sure that the copay was the total amount I'd have to pay and she confirmed that amount. I also learned that I could not afford the services after our first two sessions. In short, this constitutes a breach of professional ethics related to informed consent (A.2.b. Types of Information Needed, ACA Code of Ethics). Also, A.10.c. states that in establishing fees, counselors should consider the financial status of clients. This caused me undue financial and emotional duress, given that she did not consider the financial burden of charging me the full amount. I did not feel confident about the services rendered to begin with, and I would not recommend this business to anyone, especially due to what I consider to be unethical practices. In a field such as this, trust is especially important. read more