• FAQs

    I’ve never talked to anyone. I’m used to handling things on my own. Aren’t people who go to therapy weak?

    Not at all. People who ask for help know when they need it and have the courage to reach out. Everyone needs help now and then. In our work together, I’ll help you explore and identify your strengths and how to implement them to reduce the influence of the problems you are facing.

    What’s the difference between talking to you or my best friend or family?

    The difference is between someone who can do something, and someone who has the training and experience to do that same thing professionally. A mental health professional can help you approach your situation in a new way– teach you new skills, gain different perspectives, listen to you without judgment or expectations, and help you listen to yourself. Furthermore, counseling is completely confidential. You won’t have to worry about others “knowing my business.” Lastly, if your situation provokes a great deal of negative emotion, and you’ve been confiding in a friend or family member, there is the risk that once you are feeling better you could start avoiding that person so you aren’t reminded of this difficult time in your life.

    Why shouldn’t I just take medication?

    Medication can be effective but it alone cannot solve all issues. Sometimes medication is needed in conjunction with counseling. Our work together is designed to explore and unpack the problems you are experiencing and expand on your strengths that can help you accomplish your personal goals.

    How does it work? What do I have to do in sessions?

    Because each person has different issues and goals for counseling, it will be different depending on the individual. I tailor my therapeutic approach to your specific needs.

    How long will it take?

    Unfortunately, this is not possible to say in a general FAQs page. Everyone’s circumstances are unique to them and the length of time counseling can take to allow you to accomplish your goals depends on your desire for personal development, your commitment, and the factors that are driving you to seek counseling in the first place.

    I want to get the most out of therapy. What can I do to help?

    I am so glad you are dedicated to getting the most out of your sessions. Your active participation and dedication will be crucial to your success.

    Questions to ask your health insurance about your “out-of-network mental health coverage”

    (1) What is my out-of-network coverage for outpatient mental health visits?
    (2) Is there a deductible that needs to be met prior to services? How much of my deductible has been met this year?
    (3) Is there a limit on the number of sessions my plan will cover per year? If Yes, How many?
    (4) Is there an “allowed” amount that would be reimbursed.
    (5) Do I need pre-authorization in order to start therapy? For example, do I need a referral from an in-network provider or a primary care physician to see someone out-of-network?
    (6) How do I submit claims for out-of-network reimbursement?
    (7) Is there anything else I need to know about utilizing my out of network benefits (limitations, rules, or other “small print” things to know).

    If you elect to use your insurance, we will provide you a receipt (sometimes called a superbill) with a section that contains something that’s called a CPT code and a diagnosis code.

    Now, one thing about a diagnosis is that it becomes part of your permanent medical record. Some people feel uncomfortable about having a mental health diagnosis on their file while other people feel totally comfortable. Please contact us if you have more questions regarding the pros and cons of having a mental health diagnosis in your medical record.

    If you need any help making sense of this process, or have other questions about our fees, please contact us and let us know! We will gladly assist you. Again, we don’t ever want you to get into a situation where you don’t know what to expect with payment.