FAQ

How do I request my mental health records?

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How do I request mental health records?

Texas law requires that requests for mental health records be made in writing.

To obtain your records, or your child’s records, please follow the steps below:

Submit a written request

  • Via Email: Email your written request and completed Authorization form to: teana@blendedresourcestexastherapy.com
    • Subject line: “REQUEST FOR RECORDS”

Additional requirements (if applicable):

  • Litigation-related records If records are requested for use in litigation, please include:
    • Cause number
    • Case title
    • Court where the case is pending
  • Business Records Affidavit
    • If you require a Business Records Affidavit, indicate this in your request
    • Fee: $15
    • Affidavits will not be provided until payment is received
  • Records fee
    • Fee for providing records: $25 for electronic records
    • Accepted payment methods: credit cards, or cash.
    • Texas law does not require records to be released until fees are paid
  • Couples, family, or third-party records If you are requesting:
    • Couples counseling records
    • Family counseling records
    • Records for anyone other than yourself or your child

    State and federal law require either:

    • A valid Court Order, or
    • An Authorization signed by the individual (or parent/legal guardian)

    Relevant law: 45 C.F.R. §164.512(e); Texas Health & Safety Code §§611.004, 611.0045, 611.008

Instructions for Attorneys and Document Companies

subpoena alone is not sufficient to compel disclosure of confidential counseling or billing records, or other Protected Health Information (PHI), under HIPAA (45 C.F.R. Chapter 164).

For mental health or medical records requested or subpoenaed in litigation (including testimony), HIPAA permits disclosure only under the following circumstances:

  1. In response to a valid court or administrative tribunal order, or
  2. When the individual (or parent/legal guardian):
    • Is a party to the proceeding
    • Has notice that the PHI has been requested
    • Does not object to the disclosure

    An Authorization from the individual or parent satisfies this requirement.

Relevant law: 45 C.F.R. §164.512(e)

Important Note

If the client or parent has indicated that they do not consent to release of records:

  • A “Statement of Assurance” will not be accepted
  • A valid Authorization or Court Order will be required
How to File a Complaint

You have a right to have your complaints heard and resolved in a timely manner. If we
cannot work things out to your satisfaction, you may file a complaint with our licensing
board:

Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council
1801 Congress Avenue, Suite 7.300
Austin, TX 78701
Telephone: 1-800-821-3205
Link to Complaint Form: http://www.bhec.texas.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/BHEC-Complaint-Form.pdf.

If you have a complaint concerning the HIPAA Privacy Regulations, you may contact the U. S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office for Civil Rights, at: OCRMail@hhs.gov.

If you believe that you have a Consumer Complaint regarding the privacy and security of your health information, you may contact the Texas Office of the Attorney General and file a consumer complaint by clicking this link:
https://www.texasattorneygeneral.gov/consumer-protection/health-care/patient-privacy

Where are the sessions held?

Services are provided remotely via a secured telehealth platform.

What are your hours?

Typically, I start at 6:am and end at 8pm but my hours vary based on the day.

Monday – Thursday 6:00 am – 8:00 pm

Friday, 8 am – 2 pm

Closed on Saturday and Sunday

Because my hours may change, the best way to check my availability is by viewing my calendar at  https://calendly.com/teana-walker

How long are your sessions?
I offer 50- and 80-minute sessions.
How do I set up an appointment?

We will have a free consultation, and if you decide to work with me, I will schedule your appointment or you can schedule via my calendar. You will receive an appointment confirmation email.

You can schedule your appointments here.

What is your cancellation policy?
I require a 24-hour cancellation notice. If you do not cancel 24 hours before your appointment or do not attend your session, I will charge you a late cancellation or no-show fee.
What is teletherapy?
Teletherapy is a form of video conferencing that allows our counselors to provide their services outside of an office. With online therapy, you won’t have to leave the comfort of your home. Online telehealth counseling can be beneficial if attending a traditional in-person appointment bothers you. In your first session, you will learn more about the convenience of online therapy. We will work together to help you understand and feel comfortable with the online therapy format.
What does teletherapy require?
You’ll need a private place and a computer, tablet, or smartphone with a camera and high-speed Internet for your appointment. You will receive access to secure video conferencing software at no cost. All you must do is log on with your device during your appointment. Your interactions will be completely safe and confidential, as our teleconferencing software encrypts all data, including video and audio.
With what age ranges do you work?
I work with adults (18 or older) as couples and individuals. I work with minors (under 18) in family therapy.
Do you work with women, men, or couples?
I work with all genders.
What do you do in sessions with clients?
I listen to understand your concerns and goals and then collaborate with you to work toward your goal.
Do your clients receive assignments between sessions?
I often assign tasks for clients to complete in between sessions.
What modalities do you use?
Emotionally Focused Therapy, Gottman approach, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), EMDR, Trauma-Focused CBT, Solution-Focused Therapy
What’s your professional training and experience?
I have my master’s in Counseling and Marriage and Family Therapy. I also have a doctorate in Marriage and Family Therapy, emphasizing blended families. I have over 15 years of experience as a therapist working with individuals, couples, and families.
What else should clients expect when working with you?
You can expect to feel seen, heard, understood, empathized with, and validated by someone who considers being part of your journey a gift.
What’s your favorite season of the year?

Fall because I get to witness the changes in the foliage and celebrate multiple birthdays and holidays which means lots of time with family and friends.

What’s the difference between therapy and coaching?

Therapy focuses on healing, treating mental health conditions, and working through past traumas. In therapy, there is often a diagnosis, can be long-term, and covered by insurance if client chooses to use their insurance. Therapy also involves use of therapeutic models and is provided by licensed mental health professionals.

Coaching focuses on moving forward and is goal-oriented, action-driven and aims to improve performance in a specific area and build skills in the present.