Privacy Policy

Coaching sessions are a collaborative process. While I am committed to providing tools and support, the success of our work together depends on your willingness to engage actively in the process. I am not a licensed therapist, and coaching is not a substitute for therapy. My role is to facilitate insight, encourage growth, and help you identify actionable steps.

You can expect me to show up to our sessions on time and ready to focus on you. You can expect me to be free of judgment.

I expect you to be as honest and open as possible. Please come to our sessions with commitment to your healing. I will do the same. If you feel activated during a session, please let me know. That will help me learn your emotional window of capacity, so that I can be sure you feel as safe as possible during our time together.

If you would like to shift something about our sessions or modify our approach, don’t hesitate to share.

Coaching sessions are strictly confidential, with the exception of situations outlined in the Mandatory Reporter Statement below. I will not record any of our sessions and ask that you disclose any intention to record for yourself. Any recording deemed beneficial to your personal progress shall be explicitly agreed upon by both parties in advance.
Within my professional supervision, you agree that I may consult with a mental health professional in peer and supervisory consultation situations, without revealing your identity, to improve the quality of your care. In addition, you agree that upon your direction and approval or in an emergency, I may consult with your mental health and health care professionals.

My notes and anything you share with me or any paperwork provided by you or your medical team will also be kept confidential.

*Exceptions:

  1. Receiving a legal subpoena to release your records

  2. If I feel you are in danger of harming yourself or another person*

Payment Method and Policy
Payment is required at the time of booking to secure your session. Accepted payment methods include credit/debit cards, Venmo, Zelle, and PayPal.

Please contact me for current fees and sliding scale. 

My sliding scale ensures equitable access to services. If you are Black, Indigenous, and/or otherwise experiencing systemic financial barriers, please select the lower tiers. If you are able to pay the full rate, your contribution supports making coaching available to others.

Failure to provide payment before the session will result in the appointment being canceled.

Cancellation Policy
Cancellations must be made at least 24 hours before the scheduled session. Cancellations within this window or no-shows will incur the full session fee. Exceptions may be made for emergencies on a case-by-case basis.

Communication Outside of Session Policy
I am available via email for brief communication between sessions, such as rescheduling or clarification on action steps. Any coaching-related inquiries requiring significant time or response will be addressed in your next session. I do not communicate with clients via social media or text for professional matters unless previously agreed upon.

Relational Impact Statement
At Inside My Shell, my goal is to create a positive and affirming impact on your relationships. This includes helping you identify and understand relational patterns, clarify your values, and establish boundaries that honor all partners involved. I hold space for exploration without judgment and prioritize creating an inclusive, trauma-informed environment.

Mandatory Reporter Statement
As a mandatory reporter, I am required by law to report suspected abuse, neglect, or threats of harm to self or others to the appropriate governing agencies. If this situation arises, I will inform you of my obligation and the steps I will take.

Scope of Practice Statement
As a coach, I focus on relational growth, self-awareness, and actionable strategies. I do not diagnose or treat mental health disorders or provide medical advice. If therapy or additional support is needed, I will provide appropriate referrals.

HIPAA Disclaimer
While I take confidentiality seriously, coaching is not bound by HIPAA regulations. I do not maintain medical records, and communication should not include sensitive personal health information.

Crisis Response Resources
I am not equipped to provide crisis intervention. If you are experiencing a mental health emergency, please contact:

  • National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)

  • Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741

  • Emergency Services: Dial 911

  • Project LETS: https://projectlets.org

Drug and Alcohol Policy
Sessions are a space for clarity and growth. Please refrain from attending sessions under the influence of drugs or alcohol. If you appear impaired, the session will be rescheduled, and a cancellation fee may apply.

Grievance Statement
If you are dissatisfied with your experience or have concerns, please contact me directly at coach@insidemyshell[dot]com. I am committed to addressing your concerns and finding solutions collaboratively.

Global Trauma Institute Certified Trauma Care Practitioner Professional Standards Expectations
As a Practitioner certified by The Global Trauma Institute, I attest to:

  1. Being committed to creating a safe, supportive, and empowering environment for all participants.

  2. Prioritizing the physical, emotional, and psychological safety of my clients, thereby creating a trusting environment where they feel comfortable sharing their experiences.

  3. Encouraging participant autonomy, fostering self-awareness and personal growth through collaborative decision-making.

  4. Being trustworthy through transparency by maintaining clear and consistent communication, ensuring confidentiality and ethical integrity in all interactions.

  5. Respectfully acknowledging the diverse backgrounds, identities, and experiences of my participants, approaching each session with cultural humility.

  6. Providing choice and collaboration by honoring each client’s autonomy in the coaching process and working collaboratively to meet their goals.

  7. Maintaining practices that reflect the Code of Ethics and Professional Standards of the Global Trauma Institute, LLC.

For any grievances, concerns, or feedback, please contact drjbelton@globaltraumainstitute.com

Thank you for trusting me. I look forward to supporting your journey toward healthier, more fulfilling relationships!

Logo of the Global Trauma Institute featuring a globe and diverse group of people holding hands around it.