What ages do you work with? Do you provide marriage counseling?
I work with adults (age 18 and over). I am not a marriage counselor however I can provide a referral if needed.
Do you prescribe medication?
I cannot prescribe medications. I can provide you with a referral to a psychiatrist if it is determined that you can benefit from medications.
How is Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) different from 'talk therapy?
Cognitive-behavioral therapy is based on the idea that our thoughts and thought patterns affect our moods and actions. When these thoughts are inaccurate or overly negative, they can begin to alter our emotions and reactions to situations. CBT is a very structured approach to therapy and is often time-limited. It is a collaborative process that focuses on the present, and is goal-oriented and problem-focused. The goal is for you to learn skills that you will take with you even after therapy has ended.
How do I set up an appointment? Can I get a free consultation?
Call or email me. Because I do not answer the phone while I am in session, I am not often available to answer your call. Please leave a message. I will call you back as soon as I am able. This phone call will serve as a consultation to make sure that my approach to treatment fits with your needs. We will discuss insurance and fees, then set up an initial session. If for any reason we decide not to work together, I will gladly provide a referral.
What happens during the first session?
During the first session, I will ask many questions so I can get a thorough understanding about your background and history and the present issues you are dealing with. Having an accurate understanding of these problems allows me to provide the most effective treatment. By the end of that first session, we will have agreed upon goals for counseling and a plan of how to reach them. We will also discuss the frequency of sessions based on those goals and what you are comfortable with. As we progress in treatment, we will evaluate at regular intervals how things are going and will change direction as needed.
How long are sessions? How often will we meet?
Each session is typically 45-50 minutes long. Longer sessions are provided as requested. Treatment is tailored to each individual and the presenting problems. Typically, I like to see individuals once a week, at least at the beginning of treatment. Consistency in our sessions is important in being able to establish a positive and strong rapport, as well as to experience the greatest gains out of treatment. For some individuals, I will offer to meet twice a week as necessary.
How long will I need to be in therapy?
This is a common question that is difficult to answer. CBT is directive, solution-focused and by nature a short-term therapy. Each person responds differently and I would likely be able to give you a better idea of the length of therapy after you have attended a few sessions. The length of the therapy process will depend on the complexity of the presenting issues and set treatment goals.
What about confidentiality?
Everything discussed in our sessions will remain confidential, subject to certain legal requirements to disclose such as in the case of the risk of suicide or harm to others, or the suspicion of child abuse. If you use insurance either in- or out-of-network, you should be aware that certain confidential information may be demanded by your insurance company as a condition of reimbursement. (See “Should I use my health insurance to pay for counseling?”)
How much is a session?
My hourly rate is $120 for the initial session, $110 for a 60 minute session and $100 for a 45 minute session. If you choose to use your insurance, your insurance likely covers part or all of the cost. (See below for more information regarding insurance coverage). In order to accommodate clients of various means I do reserve a few openings for those paying on a sliding-scale fee basis (based on income and other factors). As these slots are limited, please let me know that you are looking for this fee basis before we schedule an appointment. Contact me for further information.
Do you accept insurance?
I am an in-network provider for the following insurance companies:
Anthem Blue Cross/Blue Shield
Carpenter’s Insurance
Essence
Mercy
United Health Care
United Medical Resources (UMR)
Value Options
Even if I am not an in-network provider for your insurance company, many individuals are able to receive some reimbursement for therapy utilizing out-of-network benefits. I am happy to check your out-of-network benefits for you and provide necessary documentation to assist in reimbursement if needed.
How much will my insurance cover?
Coverage will depend on your specific plan with your insurance company. If I am in-network with your insurance, it typically means you will have a copay each session. If I am out-of-network, you will likely need to meet a deductible, then your insurance will pay a certain percentage. Insurance can be very confusing. I am happy to check your insurance benefits for you and explain your coverage as best I can.
Should I use my health insurance to pay for counseling?
Whether or not to use your insurance for counseling is a personal decision. There are a few considerations that are not widely known but that are important for you to know prior to making a decision. Although therapy is confidential (accept in the situations described in the question about confidentiality above), when you use insurance to pay for counseling your insurance has a right to clinical information about your treatment. In order for insurance to pay for your sessions, your therapist must give a mental health diagnosis that goes in your permanent medical record. This diagnosis then is considered a “pre-existing condition” that may interfere with future insurance coverage if you or your employer switch to a different plan or insurance company or when you apply for life insurance. Occasionally, insurance companies may require your clinician to provide personal information about your mental health treatment to determine whether or not they think treatment is warranted. This information becomes part of your record. The insurance company can then decide your treatment is not "medically necessary" and no longer pay for sessions. Their decision supersedes the opinion of your therapist. Insurance companies often limit sessions to 45 minutes and have the final say in how often and how long you can receive treatment. Although you are entitled to use your medical benefits as you wish and are permitted by your insurer, you may ultimately decide that the flexibility and privacy afforded by paying directly is worth any extra cost. It would be a mistake to be dissuaded from seeking treatment because of the issues surrounding health insurance coverage for mental health. Please discuss your concerns with me and we will consider your options.
What form of payments do you accept?
I accept cash, check, credit cards, and Health Savings Cards. Payment is expected at the time of service.
