When deciding to enter behavioral health treatment, most people will either seek a referral from a trusted person or do their own research and read reviews. In both cases, a first impression carries a lot of weight. Whether it is a first-hand account of successful treatment and compassionate care from a friend, or a litany of positive online reviews, it is almost certain to involve a financial component.

The American healthcare experience, including behavioral health, for the average patient, is generally complex, confusing, frustrating, and overall unpleasant experience. Is it any wonder that the relationships between patients and providers are so distant or that unpaid medical bills are now a major source of debt collection for American consumers? There is a solution for providers who wish to foster a healthy, productive relationship with their patients.

The landscape of behavioral healthcare in the United States is laden with obstacles and difficulties, especially for patients. Accessing healthcare presents particular challenges to those needing mental health services, and even when available, understanding and affording it often present obstacles to those seeking treatment.

According to a study in the Annals of Family Medicine, the average amount of time that a doctor spent on an individual patient visit was 17.5 minutes. That leaves a lot of time to form an impression of a practice.