Do you accept insurance?
Currently, I do not accept insurance through my private practice services (I am only in-network through a group agreement at the clinic I work at). However, there are two options for still being able to use your insurance network's benefits...
- Request Insurance Reimbursement. As a part of services, I provide what we call a "Superbill." This is a listing of all services provided, including applicable "CPT" codes (codes used for insurance billing purposes), and even all payments you've made. Insurance companies will sometimes allow you to submit these bills for reimbursement for services that you paid for out of pocket. HOW to do this varies by insurance company. To find out or learn more about your insurance company's policy on reimbursements, call the customer service phone number located on the back of your insurance card.
- Set Up a Single Case Agreement (SCA). This is essentially a contract agreed upon by patient (you), provider (me), and insurance company for me to be a temporary in-network provider for you. I typically like to avoid these, as sometimes the legwork required (by you) to obtain one is a hassle (typically the patient has to initiate the SCA). Some insurance carriers, if asked to initiate an SCA, will even just provide you with a form that really is a Request for Reimbursement, which means you'll be out-of-pocket until reimbursed, IF they decide to reimburse you at all.
Why don't you accept insurance?
Two main reasons...
- There are options to utilize your insurance that are often easier. Namely, the two options above. Applying for insurance panels (as a clinician) is a pain and sometimes takes a very long time (not including any time spent on a wait list), only to find out you won't be allowed as an in-network provider. That's frustrating. Often the success rates for utilizing Single Case Agreements and/or Reimbursement for Service Requests are better (thought not always).
- Confidentiality. One of the requirements for submitting insurance claims is there must be a diagnosis from session number one. For some, a diagnosis provides clarity in to "what's going on with me," but for many others (the majority, I've found), diagnoses tend to be more of a burden. First, it's an often-unwanted label. On top of that, it's a label that tends to follow you around for years, even if the diagnosis has resolved (and can even affect your insurance premiums, though this is debatable). Aside from labels, insurance reimbursement requires me to submit documentation for proof of service, proof of necessity of service, and proof of progress. This means my progress notes get sent off, which comes with it a number of risks to confidentiality and security of information. Do note: Single Case Agreements carry with them the same requirements whereas requests for reimbursement often do not.
How much are services?
Like anything, this depends on the service(s) being provided. My services fall in to five main categories...
- Initial or Mental Health Consultation. Free. Technically, this is before we ever start services. This is a 20-30min sit-down/phone conversation where I ask a little about your background, and I tell you a little about mine. This is to ensure proper fit for both of us. This also gives me the opportunity to, if it's not a good match, find you a suitable referral to someone that would be a good match.
- First Session (Individual Therapy). $90. These are about the same length as an individual session (they are 50-55min instead of 45-50min) and they also require a bit more work on both our parts. This is also often termed an "Initial Assessment." It gives me the information necessary to write a detailed psychosocial assessment and treatment plan.
- Individual Therapy Session. $75 for 45-50min. There is a 60-65min option available for $90.
- Family Session. I always prefer scheduling these for 60-65min, though 45-50min is possible, for $100 and $80, respectively.
- Psychological Testing. This varies wildly, and is dependent upon the psychological testing utilized, as well as the level of detail needed for the final interpretive report. Contact me if you are interest in psychological testing and we can discuss the presenting issues, reason behind need for testing, and potential recipients of interpretive reports.
What techniques do you use?
This is a tough question as it always varies by individual. Cognitive therapies tend to work the best for issues such as depression and anxiety (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), though even this changes based on need. For example, if the primary presenting issue is grief and loss, more Narrative-based and Humanistic approaches work best. This is one of the things we typically discuss during our initial consultation, as well as throughout the process of therapy. The research has been fairly clear on this: There is no SINGLE therapeutic technique that works across all situations and individuals.
What types of issues do you work with?
Anyone who is willing to tell their story, I am willing to listen. However, I know when it comes to seeking therapy, the therapist's experience is a priority. I work with each individuals, families, and couples, and even do group from time to time. I also work as a therapist an an inpatient behavioral health hospital, so this means I come across a variety of issues, such as family conflict, marital/couples' discord, anxiety, depression, grief & loss, and more. See my About Me or About My Services pages for more information.