Purpose:
Impact Family Christian Counseling is committed to promoting the emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being of all clients. This policy outlines our approach and responsibilities when addressing situations where a client may be a danger to themselves or others, as governed by the Baker Act (Florida Mental Health Act).
Policy Statement:
While Impact Family Christian Counseling is not a designated mental health facility for Baker Act evaluation or involuntary commitment, we aim to assess and address situations responsibly and compassionately, ensuring the safety of our clients and others.
Scope:
This policy applies to all staff, counselors, and associates of Impact Family Christian Counseling when they identify a potential crisis involving a client's mental health or safety.
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Procedure:
1. Pre-Session Awareness of a Crisis Situation
If it becomes evident that an individual may require immediate intervention under the Baker Act prior to scheduling a counseling session, the following protocol applies:
Client Responsibility: Any individual who is aware they or someone else requires Baker Act intervention must be advised to immediately contact 911 or their local hospital for an emergency evaluation.
Counselor Responsibility: If a counselor becomes aware that someone may require immediate Baker Act intervention before a session is scheduled, the counselor must encourage the individual or their family to contact 911 or their local hospital rather than proceed with scheduling an appointment.
Impact Family Christian Counseling is not equipped to manage crisis situations prior to a session and can only respond to concerns identified during an active counseling session.
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2. Recognition of a Crisis Situation During a Session
Counselors will assess for warning signs that a client may pose an immediate risk of harm to themselves or others. Warning signs may include, but are not limited to:
Expressions of suicidal ideation, intent, or a plan.
Homicidal ideation or threats of violence.
Severe symptoms of mental illness impairing the client's judgment or behavior.
Evidence of inability to care for themselves or meet basic needs.
3. Assessment Protocol
If a counselor observes any signs of acute risk during a session, they will:
Conduct a risk assessment during the session to determine the severity and immediacy of the threat.
Explore protective factors, such as family or support systems, and identify potential interventions.
Document observations, client statements, and actions taken in the client's record.
4. Immediate Action
If a counselor determines that a client is at imminent risk:
The counselor will take steps to protect the client, which may include notifying law enforcement or crisis intervention services to perform a Baker Act evaluation.
The counselor will inform the client (if possible) of their actions and the reasons behind them, maintaining transparency and compassion.
For minors, the counselor will immediately notify parents or legal guardians, unless doing so would escalate the risk.
5. Notification and Coordination
The counselor will contact local law enforcement or a crisis response team to facilitate an emergency evaluation.
The counselor will provide any necessary details, such as client history or recent behavior, to ensure appropriate care.
Impact Family Christian Counseling will follow up with the client and their family/support system to offer continued support and resources.
6. Referral to External Services
Impact Family Christian Counseling will provide referrals to licensed mental health professionals, hospitals, or crisis centers for further evaluation and treatment if needed.
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Confidentiality and Legal Compliance
Counselors will uphold confidentiality in accordance with HIPAA and Florida law, except where disclosure is necessary to prevent harm or comply with the Baker Act.
All actions taken under the Baker Act will be thoroughly documented, including communications with law enforcement, crisis teams, and family members.
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Post-Crisis Support
Once the immediate crisis is resolved, counselors will:
Engage with the client and their family/support system to debrief and provide spiritual and emotional support.
Develop a safety plan or action plan to help the client manage future crises.
Encourage the client to pursue continued therapy or retreat options for individual healing or couples' growth (https://impact.vision/retreats/ or https://impact.vision/inner-healing-retreat/).
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Training and Education
All staff members at Impact Family Christian Counseling will receive annual training on crisis intervention, risk assessment, and Baker Act procedures to ensure the highest level of care and compliance.
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Policy Review:
This policy will be reviewed annually or as necessary to ensure compliance with Florida law and best practices in mental health counseling.