Requesting Records

Your information is confidential between you and your therapist. You may review or request a copy of your records at any time. We only release information with a signed Authorization to Release Healthcare Information from you or a court order. Please note: In the State of Washington, all clients age 13 and older are legally required to sign a release of information in order for mental health information to be shared.

Please read all information and instructions before completing and signing the authorization form. There may be a charge for copies of your records unless your records are being sent to another healthcare facility or a physician per Washington Administrative Code (WAC) 246-08-400.

Additional Information

  • Processing Time: In accordance with the Uniform Health Information Act for the State of Washington, records shall be released within fifteen days after receipt of a release form signed by all required parties.

  • Communicating by Fax: Many clients ask Storyline Counseling & Wellness to communicate by fax. It is our policy to use fax transmissions when necessary for treatment, payment or healthcare operations. By providing Storyline Counseling & Wellness with a fax number, you are consenting to Storyline Counseling’s use of that number for communicating with you by fax.

  • Client Rights: You have the right to revoke or cancel this authorization, in writing, at any time.

  • Cancellation Notice: Since records are usually handled within 2-3 days after receipt, Storyline Counseling and Wellness will not be held responsible for any release of records accomplished before receipt of a written notice of cancellation. Revocation takes place from the date of receipt of written request.

Instructions for Canceling a Request

  • You must provide a written request to Storyline Counseling and Wellness asking for revocation/cancellation of the original record release.

  • We need to have your complete name, date of birth, telephone number and the name of the person/agency that you authorized to receive the medical information.

  • After receipt of the notice, we will confirm and acknowledge your withdrawal of authorization via telephone.

  • If the release has been accomplished, you will be notified by a staff member. The release will be revoked for any further disclosure.

Washington State Record Retention Laws

  • Master Level Therapists (LMFT, LICSW, LMHC): WAC 246-809-035(4): The licensed counselor must keep all client records for a period of five years following the last visit. Within this five-year period, all records must be maintained safely, with properly limited access.