Frequently asked questions.
How does therapy work?
Studies have shown that one of the strongest predictors of successful treatment is the quality of the relationship between therapist and client. Much of our current distress and anxiety have been created in the context of relationships--in both early childhood, and in present relational experiences. It stands to reason then, that healing also happens within relationships… particularly within the therapeutic relationship. Through the therapeutic experience of safety, acceptance, and compassion, the client will be more likely to experience desired long-term change. Healing from old attachment wounds and learning meaningful ways of connecting with oneself and others forge a hopeful pathway ahead.
What is your fee and do you accept insurance?
My full fee for session is as follows: $175 for 50-minute weekly sessions and $250 for 75-minute sessions (recommended for couples and families). I also offer a package of 4 consecutive weekly 50-minute sessions at a special rate of $600. A sliding scale arrangement can also be provided upon request and availability.
I accept payment in cash, credit or debit card, as well as check. I also accept PPO insurance as an Out-of-Network provider. I’d be happy to assist you in figuring out your coverage if you choose to utilize your insurance plan. If you choose to utilize your insurance, I will provide you with superbills that you can submit to your insurance company directly.
How do I prepare for the first session?
Prior to the first session, I will email you a link to your client portal, which is a secure, HIPAA-compliant, and confidential online platform. You will find several forms that you will fill out electronically before your first session, which should take approximately 15-20 minutes. You will also be provided with directions to my office, where to park, and how to check in. If you’re seeking telehealth services, you’ll receive details on how to log into our easy to navigate HIPAA-compliant video platform.
I want to take the next step towards therapy…where do I start?
It would be a privilege to hear your story as I journey with you in therapy. You can either email or call/text me to set up a free 20-minute phone consultation during which I will answer any questions you may have about myself and the process of therapy. We will discuss what you’re looking to receive from counseling, and I will help you decide whether we would work well together before we move forward with scheduling a session. I would also be happy to assist with appropriate referrals if the fit does not work well for any particular reason.
What is the duration and frequency of therapy?
Sessions are held once weekly, as therapy becomes most successful when attended on a consistent basis. Therapy can consist of short-term or long-term work, depending on the nature of the issues and your commitment to the work both in sessions and outside of sessions. You can expect to notice changes as soon as the first couple of sessions. My goal is to not keep you in therapy longer than you need to be.
What should I expect during the first therapy session?
The first counseling session is similar to a “meet-and-greet” in which I will go over essential paperwork and consent, and speak about confidentiality, including its limitations. We then set aside time to explore what brings you into counseling at this time, discuss how I can help you, create goals for therapy, and gather some details around your current and past life history. I also encourage you to ask me any questions you may have about the counseling process and about my work.
What is the Good Faith Estimate?
You have the right to receive a “Good Faith Estimate” explaining how much your medical care will cost.
Under the law, health care providers need to give patients who don’t have insurance or who are not using insurance an estimate of the bill for medical items and services.
● You have the right to receive a Good Faith Estimate for the total expected cost of any non-emergency items or services. This includes related costs like medical tests, prescription drugs, equipment, and hospital fees.
● Make sure your health care provider gives you a Good Faith Estimate in writing at least 1 business day before your medical service or item. You can also ask your health care provider, and any other provider you choose, for a Good Faith Estimate before you schedule an item or service.
● If you receive a bill that is at least $400 more than your Good Faith Estimate, you can dispute the bill.
● Make sure to save a copy or picture of your Good Faith Estimate. For questions or more information about your right to a Good Faith Estimate, visit www.cms.gov/nosurprises or call 800-985-3059.