I've heard of it, but I think it's really unreasonable. With proper notice (24 - 48 - 72), most therapists in 'business' can fill that spot with a client who is trying to get in for an extra apt., or a new client, or even to conduct the paperwork, returning phone calls, etc. that they have to do.

I can understand that it would be a problem if a therapist has a client or two who abuses it and frequently cancels, but I'd be more in favor of a policy that allows cancellation with proper notice, alongside another policy that 'x' number of non-emergent cancellations within a certain period of time puts the client in jeopardy of termination.

He does it because he has to run a business? I'll be that policy turns away a good amount of business.