What should I expect when starting treatment?
Beginning treatment will start with an intake appointment that will typically last 60-90 minutes. During the intake appointment I will have you complete some basic paperwork, gather history, discuss what brought you to therapy, and discuss your goals for treatment. We will review insurance and/or payment method. I always encourage clients to ask questions about the treatment process. It is important that you feel comfortable with the treatment you receive.
How long and how often are sessions?
Each client participates in an intake appointment and based on your individual needs, the frequency of appointments will be discussed with you. Many clients begin treatment weekly and decrease the frequency as they begin to reach their goals. Frequency of meetings is tailored towards your needs and comfort, and may be as frequent as twice a week to as long as monthly. Sessions are typically around 60 minutes, but longer sessions can be arranged if needed.
What are therapy sessions like?
Just as we are all unique, individual sessions are catered towards the needs and goals of the client. Although I am by nature interactive with clients, the structure of the sessions may vary. Sessions may focus specifically on processing issues that you are hoping to discuss, learning and practicing coping and relaxation skills, and at times are structured and goal directed by nature. I always try to meet clients where they are at, and am eager to hear feedback and your feelings about your experience with the therapeutic process.
How long will I be in counseling?
The length of time a client is in counseling is often dependent on the client's personal goals. Some clients have a very specific problem that can be addressed in short term counseling. Other clients may participate in counseling as an on-going growth and supportive process. Some clients have the desire to engage in treatment, but may not be ready to participate fully in the process. Where ever you are in this process is respected, but can also affect the length of treatment.
How do I arrange payments?
Insurance: Insurance companies often provide coverage for mental health services, but if you are not familiar with the coverage that you receive through your insurance, then you should contact your insurance company to determine your current mental health benefits. Insurance companies often have in and out of network providers. If I am an in network provider then I will submit all billing to your insurance, and you will be responsible for your copayment and/or deductible at the time of service. If I am considered out of network for your insurance, then you will be responsible for full payment at the time of service, and will submit the billing to your insurance company for direct reimbursement according to your benefit plan.
Private Pay:
For clients that do not have health insurance, or prefer to go outside of their benefit plan for privacy purposes, I do accept private payment for clients. I do ask for clients to make payment at the time of service. Intake appointments are $175 and hourly sessions are $160. I do offer a sliding scale for clients on a case by case basis.
Credit Payments:
I am currently able to accept credit cards. A 3% transaction fee will be applied to your payment.
What if I think that I might need medication?
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I am not able to prescribe medication. If you are interested in consulting with a psychiatrist regarding whether medication may benefit you, I would be happy to assist you by providing a referral for a professional in the community for treatment.