Biblical Counsel and Discipleship

 BIBLICAL COUNSELING AGREEMENT AND LIABILITY WAIVER

Please read this document carefully. By contacting us in any way, you acknowledge and agree to all terms, limitations, and releases outlined below.

1. Scope of Ministry and Non-Professional Status

• Not Licensed Therapy: The counselor is a Biblical Coach operating under pastoral guidelines, not a licensed psychologist, marriage and family therapist, or mental health professional in Washington State.
• No Medical Services: This ministry does not provide medical, clinical, or psychiatric services of any kind.
• RCW Compliance: This spiritual coaching is strictly exempt from state regulation under Washington Revised Code (RCW) 18.19.040, which protects religious counseling.

2. Nature of Biblical Counseling

• Scriptural Authority: Discussions rely solely on the Bible as the final authority for faith, conduct, and life.
• No Cultural Adaptation: Scripture is applied literally and historically without modification or adaptation to modern culture, trends, or politics.
• Spiritual Focus: The goal is reproof, correction, spiritual growth, discipleship, and Christ-centered encouragement.

3. Presence of Minors and Parental Responsibility

• Adult-Only Direct Counseling: Direct counseling services are exclusively provided to adults aged 18 and older.
• Accompanying Minors: Minors may be present during sessions solely under the continuous supervision of their parent or legal guardian.
• Guardian Liability: The signing or contacting, the adult assumes full liability for the minor's presence, safety, and exposure to the biblical topics discussed.

4. Client Responsibility and Release of Liability

• Personal Autonomy: You retain full personal responsibility for all decisions, actions, or omissions made during or after sessions.
• No Reliance: No statement or implication made during discussions shall be construed as a clinical directive.
• Assumption of Risk: You voluntarily assume all risks associated with participation, whether attending in person or via digital platforms.
• Complete Waiver: You release, waive, and forever discharge the counselor from any liability or claims arising from these spiritual discussions.

5. Online Security and Digital Counseling

• Platform Risks: Online sessions utilize third-party digital platforms, which carry inherent privacy and cyber security risks.
• Client Environment: You are responsible for securing a private, quiet space on your end to maintain session confidentiality.
• No Recording: Neither party may record audio or video of any session without mutual consent.

6. Confidentiality and Washington State Mandated Reporting

• General Privacy: Conversations are kept confidential to foster a safe environment for spiritual growth.
• Mandated Reporter Status: Under RCW 26.44.030, the counselor is legally obligated to report any suspected abuse or neglect of children or vulnerable adults to Washington authorities.
• Harm to Self/Others: Confidentiality is waived if the counselor believes there is an imminent threat of severe harm to yourself or others.
• Christian Mediation: Any legal disagreements will be settled through private Christian mediation rather than civil lawsuits in Washington courts.
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Client Acknowledgement & WaiverI have read this agreement, fully understand its terms, and understand that I am giving up substantial rights by signing it. By contacting Stephen Tormala, I agree to it freely, voluntarily, and intend this to be a complete release of liability to the greatest extent allowed by Washington law.