CommUNITY Connect is a discounted therapy fee program designed to increase access to mental health services for students of color with limited resources. The program offers therapy sessions at a reduced rate based on financial need. We recognize the systemic barriers that have historically limited access to quality mental health care for communities of color and are committed to addressing these disparities.

Eligibility Criteria

• Enrollment Status: The applicant must be a current student.

• Financial Need: Eligibility is based on financial need, determined by household income, financial responsibilities, and other relevant factors.

• Commitment to Treatment: The applicant must demonstrate a commitment to engaging in therapy, as evidenced by regular attendance and participation.

• Exclusion Criteria:

• Individuals presenting with active suicidality, severe self-harm, untreated psychosis, or other high-risk conditions that require a higher level of care than what can be offered in an outpatient setting.

• Individuals whose primary diagnosis is a substance use disorder requiring intensive treatment or detoxification services.

• Individuals requiring specialized services or therapy modalities not offered by the Practice.

• Individuals whose insurance fully covers therapy sessions at the Practice’s regular rates.

How Discounted Rates Are Determined and Reassessed

Discounted rates are based on an assessment of your financial need. To determine eligibility, we review factors such as household income, financial responsibilities, and student status. Depending on the results of this assessment, you may qualify for one of three discount levels: 25%, 50%, or 75% off the Practice’s standard rates. The discount level is determined based on the information provided in the application form, using a scoring system that assesses financial need to ensure consistency and fairness for all participants.

Fees are reassessed yearly, or sooner if there are significant changes in your financial situation, student status or any other relevant factors, to ensure continued eligibility for the program. Participants are required to update their information annually to ensure continued eligibility. This reassessment ensures that the program continues to serve those in need while remaining fair and equitable.

Payment Policies

1. Payment Method: Payments for services can be made via credit/debit card.

2. Payment Due Date: Payment is due at the time of each session unless other arrangements have been made in advance.

3. Missed Appointments: A fee will be charged for missed appointments not canceled within 24 hours of the scheduled time. The fee will be equal to the full-session rate determined by the qualifying discount level.

Confidentiality and Privacy

All information shared during the application process and therapy sessions is confidential and will be used solely for the purposes of providing care and determining eligibility for the program.

Guidelines for Participation

To ensure that CommUNITY Connect serves those most in need, participants are required to adhere to the following guidelines:

• Eligibility Verification: Participants must provide accurate and up-to-date information regarding their financial situation and student status. This information is necessary to determine eligibility for the program and the appropriate discount level. Any significant changes in your financial situation or student status must be reported as they may impact your continued eligibility.

• Commitment to Treatment: Participants are expected to fully commit to their treatment plan. Regular attendance and active participation in sessions are essential to achieving therapeutic goals. Frequent cancellations or no-shows may result in dismissal from the program.

• Program Availability: Due to limited resources, participation in CommUNITY Connect may be subject to availability. Eligible participants will be considered on a first-come, first-served basis, and there may be a waitlist if demand exceeds program capacity.

• Review of Participation: CommUNITY Connect reserves the right to review and reassess participation at any time. This review ensures that the program is effectively meeting the needs of participants and that resources are being allocated appropriately.

• Adherence to Practice Guidelines: In addition to these program-specific guidelines, all participants are expected to adhere to the general practice guidelines as outlined by the Practice. This includes, but is not limited to, policies on attendance/cancellations, payments, treatment engagement, and communication.

Please feel free to contact me if you have further questions.

If you’d like to apply, fill out the application here.