Engel Advocacy Policies

At Engel Advocacy, we are committed to providing professional, ethical, and client-centered services. The following policies are designed to ensure clarity, accountability, and a high standard of care for all individuals and families we serve.

Confidentiality & Privacy Policy
Engel Advocacy respects the privacy of all clients and maintains strict confidentiality in accordance with applicable laws and ethical standards.

All client information is kept confidential and securely maintained
Information will only be released with a signed Authorization for Release of Information
Exceptions to confidentiality include situations involving:
- Suspected abuse or neglect
- Risk of harm to self or others
- Court orders or legal requirements

We are committed to protecting your personal information and maintaining trust throughout the service process.

Documentation & Reporting Policy
Engel Advocacy maintains detailed and accurate records for all services provided.

Documentation may include:

Attendance records
Participation and engagement levels
Progress notes
Assessment results
Final examination scores (if applicable)

With a signed release, documentation may be provided to:

Courts
Attorneys
The Department of Children and Families (DCF)
Other authorized agencies

Attendance & Participation Policy
Consistent attendance and active participation are required for all programs.

Participants are expected to attend all scheduled sessions
Absences must be communicated in advance when possible
Excessive absences may result in non-completion of services
Active participation is required for successful completion

Failure to meet attendance or participation requirements may impact program outcomes and reporting.

Program Completion & Evaluation Policy
To successfully complete parenting programs:

Participants must attend required sessions
Demonstrate engagement and skill development
Complete all assigned activities

Final Examination Requirement

A final exam will be administered at the conclusion of applicable programs
A minimum score of 70% is required to pass
One (1) reattempt is permitted at the participant’s expense
Failure to pass after two attempts will result in unsuccessful completion

Fees & Payment Policy

Fees for services will be clearly outlined prior to the start of services
Payment is due as agreed upon in service contracts
Additional fees may apply for:
- Missed appointments without notice
- Reattempt of final exams
- Court-related services or documentation

Engel Advocacy strives to maintain transparency in all financial agreements.

Cancellation & No-Show Policy

A minimum of 24 hours notice is required for cancellations
Missed appointments without notice may be subject to a fee
Repeated no-shows may result in discontinuation of services

Professional Boundaries Policy
Engel Advocacy maintains clear professional boundaries to ensure ethical and effective services:

Services are provided in a professional capacity only
Dual relationships are avoided
Communication will remain respectful and appropriate at all times

Non-Discrimination Policy
Engel Advocacy provides services without discrimination based on:

Race
Ethnicity
Gender
Religion
Sexual orientation
Disability
Socioeconomic status

All families are treated with dignity, respect, and fairness.

Client Responsibilities
Clients are expected to:

Provide accurate and honest information
Participate actively in services
Follow program guidelines
Communicate concerns appropriately
Respect staff and other participants

Provider Responsibilities
Engel Advocacy commits to:

Providing professional, ethical, and evidence-informed services
Maintaining confidentiality and proper documentation
Delivering services in a respectful and supportive environment
Acting in the best interest of children and families

Limitation of Services
Engel Advocacy provides advocacy, education, and support services and does not replace:

Legal representation
Medical or psychiatric care
Licensed clinical therapy (unless expanded in the future)

Referrals will be provided when additional services are needed.

Consent to Services

By engaging in services with Engel Advocacy, clients acknowledge and agree to the policies outlined above.

Policy Acknowledgment & Right to Discontinue Services Disclosure

Right to Discontinue Services

Engel Advocacy, LLC reserves the right to discontinue or terminate services at any time, at its sole discretion, in situations including but not limited to:

Violation of company policies
Failure to adhere to program requirements or client responsibilities
Non-compliance with attendance or participation expectations
Disruptive, inappropriate, or unsafe behavior
Failure to follow professional boundaries
Non-payment or breach of financial agreements
Providing false, misleading, or incomplete information

In such cases, Engel Advocacy may determine that continuation of services is not appropriate or in the best interest of the client, other participants, or program integrity.

Client Responsibility & Compliance

Clients are expected to:

Adhere to all Engel Advocacy policies and program requirements
Participate respectfully and appropriately in all services
Maintain consistent attendance and engagement
Follow all guidelines related to communication and conduct

Failure to meet these expectations may result in termination of services and/or unsuccessful program completion, which may be documented and reported to referring agencies, courts, or other authorized entities when applicable and with proper authorization.

Policy Acknowledgment Requirement

Prior to the initiation of any services, all clients are required to:

Review all Engel Advocacy policies
Sign a Policy Acknowledgment and Consent to Services Agreement

This acknowledgment confirms that the client:

Understands all program expectations and requirements
Agrees to comply with all policies and procedures
Acknowledges the conditions under which services may be discontinued

Services will not begin until this acknowledgment has been signed and received.