What can I expect when I attend a therapy appointment?

A typical introductory appointment for individual therapy is 60 minutes and follow up appointments are 50 minutes. The first, and sometimes second meetings will be spent together gaining a greater understanding of your personal history, priorities, and the concerns that have brought you to therapy. At times I will also ask you to complete exercises at home in between appointments to further your progress and maximize your efforts. I will work with you as a team to collaborate on what course of treatment you are willing and able to commit to, and together we work within those parameters to set goals for counseling.

Does therapy really work and how long does it take?

The effectiveness of therapy in impacting emotional well-being has been well documented especially when using evidenced-based therapies that align with the presenting concern. The American Psychological Association describes a review of hundreds of studies that shows “about 75 percent of people who enter psychotherapy show some benefit.” The duration of counseling can look different depending on your objectives. I work transparently and will discuss treatment options with you, as well as check-in on progress at regular intervals to adjust our course as needed.

What is confidentiality and how does it work in therapy?

Psychotherapy is a unique relationship in which communications between therapist and client are protected by law. I take great care to ensure all of our communications are protected and private. I will not share any protected client information without your written permission. However, there are some exceptions to this and a few of them are as follows:

• If you report abuse or neglect of a child, an elderly person, or someone who is mentally or physically disabled, I must report this to the appropriate state agency.  I am legally and ethically obligated to take action to protect others from harm.

• If I determine that you are an immediate threat to yourself or others I am legally and ethically required to take steps to ensure your safety or the safety of others.

• If a judge orders my testimony in legal proceedings in which you are involved.  

Whenever possible I will discuss the above concerns with you before taking any action. 

Do I need medication?

Depending on the concern, severity, and duration of the issue, medication can be a very helpful and effective addition to therapy. Many of the clients I work with are able to make significant progress towards their goals without the aid of medication, however, for some, the addition of medication may be necessary. It is not uncommon for individual's to meet with a Psychologist for therapy, and also meet with a Psychiatrist for psychotropic medication. In the event that I believe that you may benefit from a consultation with a Psychiatrist, I am more than happy to help you with an appropriate referral.

What does therapy cost and what is your cancellation policy?

Therapy can be a big financial investment, and I take pride in providing a service that values both your time and your investment. This is why I have focused my training on brief, evidence based, and effective therapy models. While my fees are in-line with other licensed psychologists in the area, if you are unable to invest in therapy with me at this time, I would be happy to provide you with referrals to colleagues who may better meet your financial needs.

Rates:

• For Individuals:

  1. Initial Evaluation: $200 - 60 Minutes

  2. Regular Sessions: $180 - 50 Minutes

When you are unable to make a scheduled appointment please provide at least 24 hours notice. As I am a small, part-time practice with limited session slots available, this 24-hour time requirement allows me the opportunity to contact another client who is in need of services. If you fail to cancel your appointment within this 24-hour time period, you will be required to pay the full cost of your session, which will be automatically charged to the credit card that I have on file for you. I appreciate your conscientiousness in this matter.

What questions should I ask my insurance provider about “out of network” benefits?

I believe therapy is most effective when care can be individualized and provided with the utmost confidentiality. When a person uses an insurance company for their mental health needs, their care may be dictated by their insurance providers, thus impacting the type of treatment I am able to provide. Also note, when using your insurance company, personal  information about you is often required to be divulged to the provider. If you feel so inclined, and wish to ask for reimbursement from your provider, it will be your responsibility to contact your current insurance company to determine if there are any "out of network" benefits. Some good questions to ask are:

• Do I have mental health or behavioral health benefits?

• How many sessions per year are covered by my insurance?

• Is there a deductible that has to be met?

• What portion of my "out of network" therapy cost is covered?

• Is pre-authorization from my primary care physician required?

• What is the maximum amount of "out of network" benefits that you provide?