Peace of Mind Counseling ~ Dr. Melissa Earls, LPC-S
When you need someone who wants to listen
Welcome to Peace of Mind Counseling, led by Dr. Melissa Earls, LPC-S. We are dedicated to providing a safe and supportive environment for your mental health journey. Here, we focus on understanding your unique experiences and helping you find the peace and clarity you deserve. Together let’s work towards achieving your personal goals and enhancing your overall well-being.
Crisis Disclaimer:
If you are experiencing a mental health emergency or are in crisis, please call 911 or contact the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988.
To Schedule an Appointment click:
Philosophy
Professional Credentials
Services at Peace of Mind Counseling are provided by:
Dr. Melissa Earls, LPC-S, NCC, NCSC, RPT-S
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Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council: Additional supervised professionals or trainees may participate in services as appropriate under supervision and in accordance with Texas licensing regulations.
We all desire a need for peace in our lives. The day-to-day routine may at times leave us too empty to care for and attend to our personal needs. This may result in conflict and confusion. My goal is to help you find your peace of mind and personal wellness through the facilitation of professional counseling and the human connection. Since 2005, my counseling practice has provided counseling services for individuals, groups, couples, and families. My counseling​ is an eclectic approach of clinical theories and methods aimed at facilitating a humanistic delivery of therapeutic services. I am truly passionate about helping others to find peace and resolution with negative events that have affected their lives and move forward to discover enjoyment and meaning with themselves in the present.
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Client Rights and Informed Consent Overview
At Peace of Mind Counseling, we believe that counseling works best when clients are fully informed about the services they receive and understand their rights within the counseling relationship. The following information is provided to help you understand the counseling process, your rights as a client, and important policies related to services.
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Nature and Purpose of Counseling
Counseling is a collaborative process that involves working with a licensed mental health professional to address concerns related to emotional well-being, relationships, personal growth, and life challenges. Counseling may involve discussing personal experiences, exploring thoughts and emotions, learning coping strategies, and developing new perspectives.
While counseling can be beneficial, it may also involve discussing difficult or sensitive topics. The counseling process may sometimes bring up uncomfortable emotions as part of the work toward healing and growth.
Counseling outcomes vary depending on individual circumstances, participation in the therapeutic process, and other factors. While many clients experience positive change, specific results cannot be guaranteed.
Dr. Melissa Earls, LPC-S, TX LIC. 19312
Client Rights
As a client receiving counseling services, you have the right to:
• Receive respectful, professional, and ethical care
• Be informed about the counseling process and services offered
• Ask questions about treatment approaches and recommendations
• Participate in decisions regarding your counseling goals and treatment
• Refuse or discontinue services at any time
• Request information about your counselor’s qualifications
• Request access to your counseling records as permitted by law
• Request corrections to information in your record when appropriate
• File a complaint with the appropriate licensing authority if concerns arise
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Confidentiality
Confidentiality is a core principle of counseling. Information shared during counseling sessions is kept confidential and protected by federal privacy laws (HIPAA) and Texas law. However, there are certain situations in which confidentiality may be legally limited. These include:
• When there is suspected abuse or neglect of a child, elderly individual, or person with a disability
• When there is a serious risk of harm to yourself or others
• When records are required by court order or legal proceedings
• When disclosure is otherwise required or permitted by law
• When information is necessary for supervision or professional consultation (without identifying information whenever possible) More detailed information about privacy practices is available in the Notice of Privacy Practices.
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Counseling Records
Counseling records are maintained in accordance with professional and legal standards. Clients may request access to their records as permitted by Texas law and federal privacy regulations. Requests must be made in writing.
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Fees and Financial Policies
Counseling services involve professional fees. Information regarding session fees, payment methods, cancellation policies, and insurance or reimbursement options is provided prior to the start of services. Clients have the right to receive a Good Faith Estimate of expected charges if they are uninsured or choosing to self-pay, in accordance with the federal No Surprises Act.
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Telehealth Services
When services are provided through telehealth or virtual platforms, reasonable efforts are made to protect confidentiality and privacy. Clients will be informed of potential risks related to technology and their rights when participating in telehealth services.
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Questions or Concerns
Clients are encouraged to discuss any questions or concerns about counseling services directly with their counselor.
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Licensing Authority
The counseling profession in Texas is regulated by the Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council (BHEC). Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council 1801 Congress Ave., Suite Austin, Texas 78701 Phone: 512-305-7700
Website: https://bhec.texas.gov
To file a complaint regarding a licensed professional counselor, you may contact BHEC directly through their website.
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