Frequently Asked Questions:
What should I expect on my first visit?
The therapeutic relationship is built on mutual respect and communication. The beginning is an important time for building the foundation for a therapeutic relationship, establishing goals, and collaboratively determining the best way to move forward.
With adults, the initial session will primarily consist of completing and discussing paperwork. The next few sessions will allow you and I to get to know one another before delving into the deeper issues. This period of time also allows you to determine if you feel comfortable and safe, and to ask any questions you may have about the process.
With children, the first session will consist of speaking with the parent or parents regarding paperwork, discussing confidentiality with the child (this is a safe place), and starting the process of developing rapport with the child.
With couples, the initial assessment consists of three parts. The first session is a joint session that usually takes anywhere from 90 to 120 minutes depending on the couples' unique needs. The next part will involve individual meetings with each partner. Finally, we will have a joint session to review the findings and the couple will receive feedback on their relationship.
How long does therapy take?
There is a great deal of variation in the length of therapy and no prescribed length of treatment. Length of treatment will depend on you, your goals and symptoms, the history of those symptoms, and your past and present circumstances. Depending on how much and how deeply you make use of therapy, treatment can range from a few sessions to several months, to several years of weekly or twice-weekly sessions.
What about medication?
Studies have shown that psychotherapy with a skilled therapist is as efficacious as medication for treating a wide variety of mental disorders and symptoms and reduces the risk of relapse even after therapy ends. Rather than treating symptoms, psychotherapy can address the root causes of distress and the behavioral patterns that curb progress.
Long-lasting, sustainable growth and a greater sense of well-being can best be achieved with an integrative approach to wellness. Working with your medical doctor, psychiatrist, and other related and relevant professionals, you can determine what's best for you. In some cases, a combination of medication and therapy is the most effective course of action.
What is your cancellation policy?
If you need to cancel or reschedule a session, I ask that you give me 24 hours’ notice. A $150 cancelation fee will be assessed if you cancel with less than 24 hours’ notice.
What about insurance?
I accept Blue Cross Blue Shield, BCN (which includes UM PremierCare and GradCare) Aetna.
Of note, please be aware that using insurance has risks and benefits. While it can lower costs, it typically requires me to submit a clinical diagnosis that will become part of your medical record. If you have further questions, we can discuss this at your initial visit.
What if you don't take my insurance?
My services may be covered by your insurance, depending on the type of plan you hold. I can provide you with a monthly statement of services, which you can submit for reimbursement. Please check with your insurance company about mental health coverage for in- and out-of-network providers.
Additionally, if you have a Flex Spending Account and an associated card (with a Visa or MasterCard logo), you may be able to use that account to pay for our sessions.
Should you decide to use your credit card to pay fees an additional 3% + 30¢ will be assessed.
Please contact me if you'd like to discuss a sliding scale based on your income.