Frequently Asked Questions
What can I expect when starting therapy?
Prior to the first session you will be given access to the Patient Portal and complete intake information online. If you are using insurance, please contact your insurance provider ahead of time to verify your benefits (copay, deductible, HSA). During your first visit, we will review the information you submitted via the Patient Portal.
Your first couple visits are an opportunity for you to spend time telling your story, providing information about your background, and what specific goals you would like to work toward. This will also be your opportunity to assess goodness of fit, as that is important to therapy and your satisfaction. If you are uncertain about why you are seeking threatment or the benefits of therapy, I can also help you clarify goals.
How do I start a telehealth session?
I promise it is easy! No need to download an app and easy to use from a computer, phone, or tablet. Select the "Patient Portal" tab at the top of the website. Log in to your portal and look for the "telehealth" tab at the top of the page. After you select this tab you will see a link to start the private, HIPAA complient, video session. Please note the link will not be available until the day of the session.
What is the time commitment for therapy?
I encourage you to make time in your schedule for regular therapy, just as you would for other priorities, like exercise or self-care. This will provide you with the most success in therapy and will provide you with lasting change. Session frequency is determined based on symptom intensity and we can determine this at the first session, however, typical frequency is weekly to biweekly initially and then reducing to every 3-4 weeks with progression. Individual sessions average 50-60 minutes.
Is what we talk about confidential?
Confidentiality and trust are central to a healthy therapy process. In general, the law protects the confidentiality of all communications between a client and a therapist. However, there are a few exceptions to this rule that are required by law. Typically this includes risk of harm to self or others. I will review all of this with you in the first session.
In addition I utilize HIPAA compliant technology with Therapy Notes medical record system and email encryption options through Hushmail.
How are services paid?
Clients are responsible for knowing their behavioral health benefits and copays are collected at the visit. I accept cash, checks, credit and debit cards. I will gladly keep your credit card information in the confidential electronic record and run a charge following the visit. A receipt can be immediately emailed. Superbills can be printed for submission to flex plans or or out of network insurance for reimbursement.
Do you accept insurance?
- I currently accept Blue Cross Blue Shield (PPO, FEP, Blue Cross Complete), Priority Health (HMO, PPO, Medicare, Medicaid), Aetna, Medicare, Medicare plus Blue, and Meridian Medicaid. I also accept payment using HSA and self pay. If you are unsure of your insurance benefits, I recommend you call your insurance provider prior to your first appointment. The following questions may be helpful to ask your insurance provider:
- Do my insurance benefits cover outpatient mental health services?
- Do my insurance benefits cover telehealth services?
- Do I have a deductible to meet first or a required copay per session?
- What will it cost me per outpatient therapy session?
What is the No Surprises Act?
- The No Surprises Act went into effect on 1/1/2022 for consumers who have chosen to work with a medical provider/facility that is out-of-network with thier health insurance. More infomation is posted in my office lobby and will be sent to you, if applicable. If you are chosing services with me out-of-network I will send a good faith cost estimate for the next 12 months of service. You will also need to complete a consent to receive out-of-network services and accept responsibility for payment. For more information visit: www.cms.gov/nosurprises/consumers.
What is your cancelation policy?
- I request notice of cancelation by phone or portal at least 24 hours prior to the session time. There will be a $75 fee for late notice cancelations or missed appointments.