Alva Dean Consulting (ADC) Disclaimer
Introduction and Non-Medical Advice Statement
This disclaimer governs the use of services provided by Alva Dean Consulting (ADC) to both individuals and healthcare organizations. Our services include, but are not limited to, personal wellbeing systems development, psychedelic experience integration, modern shamanic practices, creative expression workshops, integrative program development for healthcare organizations, staff training, psychedelic therapy integration protocols, and complementary care strategy consulting.
PLEASE READ THIS DISCLAIMER CAREFULLY BEFORE ENGAGING OUR SERVICES.
1. Non-Medical Advice for Individuals: The information, guidance, and services provided by ADC, its founder Ian Cook, and any associated practitioners or employees to individual clients are not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. All content, including text, graphics, images, and information available through our individual services is for general informational, educational, and personal development purposes only.
2. Healthcare Organization Services: For healthcare organizations, while our services aim to enhance and complement existing medical practices, they do not replace standard medical care or override established clinical protocols. Healthcare providers should integrate our recommendations within their existing framework of evidence-based practices and regulatory compliance.
3. Educational and Consultative Purpose: Our services for both individuals and organizations are designed for educational, consultative, and developmental purposes. They are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease, mental illness, or health condition.
4. Not a Substitute for Professional Care: ADC's services do not replace the advice, treatment, or diagnosis from qualified healthcare professionals, including but not limited to doctors, psychiatrists, psychologists, or licensed therapists. We strongly encourage individuals to consult with appropriate healthcare providers for any medical or mental health concerns.
5. No Professional-Client Relationship: Engaging our services does not create a professional-client relationship typically associated with licensed healthcare providers or therapists. For healthcare organizations, our role is consultative and does not constitute direct patient care.
By continuing to use ADC's services, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to the terms outlined in this disclaimer.
Scope of Services and Limitations
1. Services Offered: Alva Dean Consulting (ADC) provides the following services:
For Individuals:
- Personal Wellbeing Systems Development
- Psychedelic Experience Integration
- Modern Shamanic Practices
- Creative Expression Workshops
For Healthcare Organizations:
- Integrative Program Development
- Staff Training and Development
- Psychedelic Therapy Integration Protocols
- Complementary Care Strategy Consulting
2. Nature of Services: Our services are complementary to, but not a replacement for, traditional healthcare or mental health treatments. For individuals, they are designed to support personal growth, self-exploration, and holistic wellness. For healthcare organizations, they aim to enhance existing clinical practices with integrative approaches.
3. Limitations:
a. Non-Regulated Practices: Some of our services, such as shamanic practices and creative expression workshops, are not regulated by professional licensing bodies. They should be viewed as personal and spiritual exploration tools rather than clinical or diagnostic methods.
b. Psychedelic and Plant Medicine Consulting: Our psychedelic experience integration and therapy integration protocols are strictly limited to educational support and integration strategies. We do not provide, administer, or assist in the procurement of any illegal substances.
c. No Prescriptions or Medical Recommendations: ADC does not prescribe medications, recommend changes to prescribed medications, or provide medical recommendations of any kind. For healthcare organizations, any changes to medical protocols must be approved and implemented by licensed medical professionals.
d. Organizational Consulting Limitations: Our services for healthcare organizations are advisory in nature. Implementation of any recommendations is the responsibility of the organization and should be done in compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, and professional standards.
4. Skill and Knowledge Limitations: While we strive to provide high-quality services, we acknowledge that our knowledge and skills have limitations. We are committed to operating within our areas of competence and referring clients or organizations to other professionals when necessary.
5. Results Not Guaranteed: The outcomes of our services can vary greatly between individuals and organizations. We do not guarantee specific results from engaging in our services.
6. Right to Refuse Service: ADC reserves the right to refuse service to anyone or any organization, at any time, for any reason we deem appropriate and necessary.
7. Modifications to Services: ADC may modify or discontinue any of its services, temporarily or permanently, with or without notice. We will not be liable for any modification, suspension, or discontinuance of any service.
By engaging our services, you acknowledge and accept these scope limitations and service boundaries.
Client Responsibilities and Risks
1. Personal Responsibility:
a. For Individuals: Clients are fully responsible for their own physical, mental, and emotional well-being during and after using ADC's services. This includes responsibility for choices, decisions, and actions taken as a result of the consultation or services provided.
b. For Organizations: Healthcare organizations are responsible for the implementation of any advice or strategies provided by ADC, including ensuring compliance with all relevant laws, regulations, and professional standards.
2. Informed Consent:
a. Individuals engaging in ADC's services acknowledge that they have been informed of and understand the nature of the services, including potential risks and benefits.
b. Organizations agree to obtain appropriate informed consent from patients or staff members participating in any programs or protocols developed with ADC's consultation.
3. Accuracy of Information:
Clients (both individuals and organizations) are responsible for providing accurate, complete, and up-to-date information as required for the provision of ADC's services.
4. Adherence to Recommendations:
While clients are encouraged to follow recommendations provided by ADC, they are responsible for evaluating the appropriateness of these recommendations for their specific situations.
5. Recognition of Risks:
a. Alternative Practices: Clients acknowledge that some services offered by ADC, such as shamanic practices or creative expression workshops, may involve emotional or psychological risks.
b. Psychedelic Integration: Clients understand that discussing or integrating psychedelic experiences may bring up challenging emotions or memories.
c. Organizational Changes: Healthcare organizations recognize that implementing new integrative programs may involve operational risks and challenges.
6. No Guarantee of Outcomes:
Clients acknowledge that results from ADC's services can vary widely and that no specific outcomes are guaranteed.
7. Responsibility to Discontinue:
Clients agree to discontinue any practice or implementation that they feel is harmful or unsuitable and to communicate any concerns promptly to ADC.
8. Medical Disclaimer:
a. Individual clients agree to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any medical or mental health concerns before implementing significant lifestyle changes.
b. Healthcare organizations agree to ensure that all medical aspects of integrative programs are overseen by qualified medical professionals.
9. Legal Compliance:
a. Individual clients are responsible for ensuring their actions comply with local, state, and federal laws, particularly regarding any activities related to psychedelics or plant medicines.
b. Organizations are responsible for ensuring all implemented programs comply with relevant healthcare laws and regulations.
10. Financial Responsibility:
Clients are responsible for all financial obligations associated with ADC's services as agreed upon before the commencement of services.
11. Confidentiality:
a. Individual clients are responsible for maintaining the confidentiality of any sensitive information shared during group sessions or workshops.
b. Organizations are responsible for maintaining patient confidentiality in accordance with HIPAA and other relevant regulations when implementing ADC's recommendations.
12. Emergency Situations:
Clients acknowledge that ADC's services are not a substitute for emergency medical or mental health services. In case of an emergency, clients agree to contact appropriate emergency services or healthcare providers.
By engaging with ADC's services, clients acknowledge that they have read, understood, and agree to these responsibilities and risks.
Psychedelic and Plant Medicine Specific Disclaimers
1. Legal Status:
a. ADC acknowledges that many psychedelic substances are currently illegal under federal law and in many jurisdictions. Our services do not advocate for the illegal use of any substances.
b. Clients are solely responsible for ensuring their compliance with all applicable laws regarding the use of psychedelic substances.
2. Scope of Services:
a. For Individuals: ADC's psychedelic-related services are limited to preparation for and integration of experiences. We do not provide psychedelic substances, assist in their procurement, or directly facilitate psychedelic experiences.
b. For Healthcare Organizations: Our services focus on developing integration protocols and support systems for legally sanctioned psychedelic-assisted therapies. We do not directly administer psychedelic treatments.
3. No Encouragement of Illegal Activity:
Nothing in ADC's services should be construed as encouraging the illegal use of psychedelic substances.
4. Medical Supervision:
a. ADC strongly recommends that any use of psychedelic substances occur under appropriate medical supervision in legally sanctioned settings.
b. For healthcare organizations, we emphasize that psychedelic-assisted therapies should only be conducted by qualified professionals in compliance with all relevant laws and regulations.
5. Risk Acknowledgment:
Clients acknowledge that the use of psychedelic substances carries inherent risks, including but not limited to psychological distress, physical discomfort, and potential legal consequences.
6. No Medical Advice:
ADC does not provide medical advice regarding the safety or appropriateness of psychedelic use for any individual. Clients are urged to consult with qualified healthcare providers before considering any psychedelic experiences.
7. Integration Support:
Our integration services are designed to help process and make meaning of psychedelic experiences, not to diagnose or treat any medical or psychological conditions resulting from psychedelic use.
8. Research and Changing Landscape:
ADC strives to stay informed about current research and legal developments in the field of psychedelic medicine. However, clients are responsible for verifying the current legal status and research findings regarding psychedelic substances.
9. Ethical Considerations:
ADC is committed to ethical practices in the emerging field of psychedelic-assisted therapies. We adhere to principles of harm reduction, informed consent, and respect for individual autonomy.
10. Cultural Sensitivity:
We acknowledge the traditional and indigenous uses of many plant medicines. Our services strive to respect these cultural contexts while operating within a modern, secular framework.
11. Limitations of Knowledge:
Despite our best efforts to stay informed, ADC acknowledges that the field of psychedelic research is rapidly evolving, and there may be unknown risks or benefits that are not currently recognized.
12. Non-Discrimination:
ADC does not discriminate against individuals based on their history of psychedelic use. However, we reserve the right to refuse services if we believe they may put the client or others at risk.
By engaging with ADC's psychedelic-related services, clients acknowledge that they have read, understood, and agree to these specific disclaimers.
Confidentiality and Limits
1. Commitment to Confidentiality:
Alva Dean Consulting (ADC) is committed to maintaining the confidentiality of all client information, whether pertaining to individuals or healthcare organizations.
2. Information Protection:
a. For Individuals: Personal information, session contents, and any details shared during consultations or workshops are kept strictly confidential.
b. For Organizations: Proprietary information, strategic plans, and other sensitive business details are protected with the utmost care.
3. Data Security:
ADC employs industry-standard security measures to protect client data from unauthorized access, disclosure, alteration, and destruction.
4. Limits of Confidentiality:
While ADC strives to maintain confidentiality, there are certain circumstances under which we may be legally or ethically obligated to break confidentiality:
a. Harm Prevention: If there is reason to believe a client may harm themselves or others.
b. Abuse Reporting: In cases of suspected abuse or neglect of children, elderly, or dependent adults.
c. Legal Requirements: If required by law, such as in response to a valid court order or subpoena.
d. Consultation: For the purpose of professional consultation, where identifying information is not disclosed.
e. Organizational Partnerships: When working with healthcare organizations, certain information may need to be shared with designated staff members as part of the consulting process.
5. Client Consent:
ADC will obtain client consent before sharing any information for purposes such as case studies, testimonials, or research.
6. Group Confidentiality:
In group settings (workshops, training sessions), while ADC emphasizes the importance of confidentiality, we cannot guarantee that other participants will maintain confidentiality.
7. Digital Communications:
Clients should be aware that electronic communications (email, video calls) may not be completely secure. ADC takes precautions, but cannot guarantee the confidentiality of these communications.
8. Record Keeping:
ADC maintains records as required by law and professional standards. Clients have the right to request access to their records, subject to legal limitations.
9. HIPAA Compliance:
For healthcare organizations, ADC complies with HIPAA regulations in handling any protected health information.
10. Confidentiality After Termination:
ADC's commitment to confidentiality continues even after the termination of services.
11. Breach Notification:
In the unlikely event of a data breach, ADC will promptly notify affected clients in accordance with applicable laws.
12. Staff and Contractor Agreements:
All ADC staff and contractors are bound by confidentiality agreements and are trained in privacy protection practices.
13. Psychedelic Experiences:
Given the sensitive and potentially illegal nature of some psychedelic experiences, ADC maintains strict confidentiality about such disclosures within the limits of the law.
By engaging ADC's services, clients acknowledge understanding and acceptance of these confidentiality policies and limitations.
Intellectual Property and Content Usage
1. Ownership of Materials:
a. ADC retains full ownership of all materials, methodologies, programs, and content created by ADC, including but not limited to worksheets, guides, presentations, and digital content.
b. This includes materials used in individual services, workshops, and organizational consulting.
2. License for Use:
Clients are granted a limited, non-exclusive license to use ADC's materials for personal or internal organizational use only, as applicable to the services provided.
3. Restrictions on Use:
a. Clients may not reproduce, distribute, modify, create derivative works of, publicly display, publicly perform, republish, download, store, or transmit any of ADC's materials without express written consent.
b. For healthcare organizations, implementation of ADC's methodologies should be limited to internal use unless otherwise agreed upon in writing.
4. Client-Created Content:
a. In individual creative workshops or similar settings, clients retain ownership of original works they create.
b. Clients grant ADC a limited license to use client-created content for the purposes of providing services, with the client's express permission.
5. Feedback and Improvements:
ADC welcomes client feedback and suggestions. Any improvements or modifications to ADC's methodologies or materials based on client feedback remain the property of ADC.
6. Confidentiality of Methodologies:
Clients agree to maintain the confidentiality of ADC's proprietary methodologies and not share them with third parties without written consent.
7. Trademarks and Branding:
The use of ADC's name, logo, or other branding elements is strictly prohibited without express written permission.
8. Third-Party Content:
ADC's materials may sometimes include properly attributed third-party content. Clients must respect the intellectual property rights of these third parties.
9. Recording of Sessions:
a. Recording of individual or group sessions is prohibited without explicit consent from ADC and all participants.
b. When recordings are permitted, they are for personal use only and may not be distributed or published.
10. Research and Publication:
Any use of ADC's methodologies or client experiences for research or publication purposes requires prior written agreement.
11. Licensing for Healthcare Organizations:
Healthcare organizations implementing ADC's programs may require separate licensing agreements for ongoing use or adaptation of materials.
12. Infringement Reporting:
Clients are encouraged to report any potential infringements of ADC's intellectual property that they become aware of.
13. Termination of License:
ADC reserves the right to terminate the license to use its materials if used in a manner inconsistent with these terms.
14. Survival of Terms:
The intellectual property provisions of this agreement survive the termination of services.
By engaging with ADC's services, clients agree to respect these intellectual property rights and usage terms.
Emergency Situations and Age Restrictions
1. Non-Emergency Services:
a. ADC's services, whether for individuals or organizations, are not intended for emergency situations.
b. We do not provide crisis intervention or emergency mental health services.
2. Emergency Protocol:
If an emergency situation arises during any ADC service:
a. For in-person services: The session will be immediately terminated, and appropriate emergency services will be contacted.
b. For virtual services: Clients will be directed to seek immediate emergency care, and ADC will take reasonable steps to ensure client safety.
3. Emergency Resources:
a. Clients are provided with a list of emergency resources, including local emergency services, crisis hotlines, and mental health emergency contacts.
b. Healthcare organizations are reminded to rely on their established emergency protocols.
4. Suicidal Ideation:
If a client expresses suicidal thoughts or intentions:
a. ADC will assess the immediate risk and take appropriate action, which may include contacting emergency services or designated emergency contacts.
b. Continuation of ADC services will be contingent upon evaluation by a licensed mental health professional.
5. Age Restrictions:
a. Individual Services:
- General services: Restricted to individuals 18 years of age or older.
- Psychedelic integration services: Restricted to individuals 21 years of age or older.
- Minors: Services to minors (under 18) are only provided with explicit parental or guardian consent and involvement.
b. Organizational Services:
- No direct services are provided to minors through organizational partnerships without specific agreements in place.
6. Verification of Age:
a. ADC reserves the right to request age verification from individual clients.
b. Clients are responsible for providing accurate age information.
7. Parental/Guardian Involvement:
For any services provided to minors (with consent):
a. A parent or guardian must be present during all sessions.
b. Separate consent and confidentiality agreements apply.
8. Capacity to Consent:
ADC reserves the right to refuse or terminate services if we believe a client lacks the capacity to consent or participate safely in our services.
9. Intoxication Policy:
Clients must not be under the influence of alcohol or non-prescribed drugs during ADC services. If intoxication is suspected, the session will be terminated.
10. Referrals:
ADC will provide referrals to appropriate emergency or age-specific services when our services are not suitable.
11. Limitation of Liability:
ADC is not liable for any consequences resulting from a client's failure to seek appropriate emergency care when needed.
12. Acknowledgment:
By engaging in ADC's services, clients acknowledge that they have read, understood, and agree to these terms regarding emergency situations and age restrictions.
Clients are urged to seek immediate professional help if they experience an emergency situation. In case of a life-threatening emergency, always call your local emergency number (such as 911 in the United States) immediately.
Results, Testimonials, and Closing Statements
1. Individual Results May Vary:
a. The results obtained from ADC's services can vary significantly between individuals and organizations.
b. Factors such as personal commitment, organizational implementation, and external circumstances can influence outcomes.
2. No Guarantees:
a. While ADC strives to provide high-quality services, we do not guarantee specific results or outcomes.
b. For healthcare organizations, improvements in patient outcomes or operational efficiency cannot be guaranteed.
3. Testimonials:
a. Testimonials and case studies shared by ADC represent individual experiences and are not guarantees of similar results for others.
b. ADC commits to presenting honest and verified testimonials, but these should not be considered as average or typical results.
4. Use of Testimonials:
a. Client testimonials are used with explicit permission.
b. ADC may anonymize testimonials to protect client privacy, especially in sensitive areas like psychedelic integration services.
5. Long-term Commitment:
Clients are advised that personal growth, organizational change, and integration processes often require long-term commitment beyond the immediate scope of ADC's services.
6. Ongoing Research:
The fields of holistic wellness, psychedelic integration, and integrative healthcare are continually evolving. ADC's approaches may change as new research and best practices emerge.
7. Complementary Nature of Services:
ADC's services are designed to complement, not replace, traditional medical care, psychotherapy, or established organizational practices.
8. Client Responsibility:
Ultimately, clients are responsible for implementing insights, practices, or recommendations provided through ADC's services.
9. Accuracy of Marketing Materials:
ADC strives to ensure all marketing materials accurately represent our services, methodologies, and potential outcomes.
10. Limitations of Testimonials:
Testimonials related to psychedelic experiences or integration are not endorsements of illegal activities and relate solely to legal, therapeutic contexts or integration services.
11. Closing Statement:
By engaging with Alva Dean Consulting's services, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to all sections of this disclaimer. You recognize that ADC's services are not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and that ADC is not responsible for any decisions or actions you take based on our services. You agree to seek the advice of qualified professionals for any medical, mental health, or legal concerns. ADC reserves the right to modify this disclaimer at any time, and your continued use of our services constitutes acceptance of such changes.
This disclaimer represents the entire understanding between you and Alva Dean Consulting regarding the use of our services and supersedes all prior agreements and understandings.
12. Contact Information:
If you have any questions or concerns about this disclaimer or ADC's services, please contact us at [insert contact information].
Last Updated: September 1st, 2024
Alva Dean Consulting is committed to ethical practices, client safety, and transparent communication. We encourage all clients to approach our services with an open mind, a spirit of personal responsibility, and a commitment to their own growth and well-being.