Informed Consent, Confidentiality and Disclaimers
Welcome to Orcas Island Wellness with Mary Jo Ahern, where we offer healing modalities such as Somatic Experiencing, Craniosacral therapy, Massage and Intuitive Bodywork, Visceral Manipulation, Listening and . Below are the definitions, benefits, and risks associated with each discipline.
HEALTH DISCLAIMER
By participating in treatment with Mary Jo or using any of the information provided here, you agree to the following:
You acknowledge that this activity carries risks of physical or mental injury. You are strongly encouraged to consult with a physician prior to starting any new exercise or therapy program.
You voluntarily participate in these activities, aware that it is your responsibility to judge your own physical and mental capabilities for such activities. You assume all risks of injury to yourself.
You acknowledge that Mary Jo Ahern may from time to time recommend specific resources or equipment to help you with your condition, and it is solely your responsibility to decide whether any such recommendations are appropriate for your ability and condition.
You expressly waive and release any claims for injury of any kind against Mary Jo Ahern or any person or entity associated with Orcas Island Wellness.
BENEFITS AND RISKS OF SOMATIC EXPERIENCING
Somatic Experiencing (SE) is a body-focused method for resolving trauma symptoms and alleviating chronic stress. It aims to reset the nervous system, restore inner balance, enhance resilience to stress, and support a return to regulation and mastery in life. As an SE practitioner certified by Somatic Experiencing International, though not a psychotherapist or licensed mental health provider, Mary Jo Ahern facilitates this process, which can help you learn to manage uncomfortable body sensations and gently release them.
SE may help increase your capacity for self-soothing and empowerment, but, like any therapeutic approach, it carries risks, including the potential to experience distressing emotions, thoughts, or images. Such reactions, while sometimes challenging, indicate progress within the therapeutic process. We will work to support your nervous system and minimize any disruptions, potentially slowing the process of managing these occurrences.
Many clients report improvements such as reduced fatigue, increased alertness, reduced anxiety, enhanced body awareness, and greater engagement in life over the course of sessions. However, there are no guarantees of specific results.
During sessions, you are encouraged to communicate any discomfort, allowing for adjustments or addressing emerging issues. If you have any questions about SE or other practices, please feel free to ask. You reserve the right to refuse or terminate our work at any time or to decline any specific touch, technique, or intervention Mary Jo proposes.
CONFIDENTIALITY
Your information will not be shared with any third parties. Although Mary Jo is not a licensed therapist, she adheres to a code of ethics similar to that of therapists and counselors. Your shared information remains confidential unless there is a concern of harm to yourself, others, or property, or suspicions of abuse towards children, elders, or dependent adults. Otherwise, confidentiality is maintained unless you provide written consent to share specific information.
Payment
Payment is required in full prior to each session or at the start of each session or series of sessions. All sales are final.
Cancellation Policy:
We ask that you please reschedule or cancel at least 24 hours before your scheduled appointment time to avoid being charged a 50% session fee. Thank you for your understanding and support.
Disclaimer:
This website and its content are not intended to provide medical advice or diagnosis. We recommend consulting a physician or other qualified health professional before starting or changing an exercise program or making a lifestyle change.