faq’s
What can I expect during an initial phone consult?
Initial consult calls are typically around 15 minutes long, and the purpose is to confirm if I have openings, see if our schedules align, disclose my rates, and potentially schedule a first appointment. I will ask you to share briefly about your presenting issue (why you are seeking therapy at this time) and advise if it falls within my scope of practice (whether I have experience and expertise treating this issue). It is also an opportunity for you to get a sense of how you feel talking to me, and if you feel comfortable or drawn to working together.
What information will you need from me before scheduling a first appointment?
If we decide we may be a good fit and you’d like to schedule an intake appointment, I will ask you to send me (via text or email) your full name, email address, and date of birth so I can set up your client portal on my online software platform, TherapyPartner. You will then receive an email invitation from them to set up a user name and password, and from there you will be able to access the necessary intake forms.
I ask that clients complete all intake paperwork at least 24 hours in advance of your first appointment, so that I may review all of your information prior to our first meeting.
Do you offer a Sliding Scale?
Yes, I reserve several spots in my practice for sliding scale clients. Please feel free to inquire if I have one of these spots open when you call and we can discuss rates.
Do you accept insurance?
No. I am not currently on any insurance panels so sessions with me will be processed as an “out-of-network provider”. Client statements created by my online software, TherapyPartner, serve also as “superbills” and contain all the necessary diagnostic and service codes needed to process claims.
Clients have found the following questions helpful when assessing what degree of compensation they might expect from their insurance:
1) Does my plan cover services for Behavioral and Mental Health?
2) If so, do I need to meet my deductible first?
3) If my insurance covers a percentage of each session, what is the “allowed amount” upon which that percentage is based? For example: your insurance says they’ll cover 50% per session after you meet your deductible, however it is not 50% of my actual rate (for individual sessions, for instance, my rate is $220), but rather 50% of the “allowed amount” or total amount your insurance will pay for a therapy session (which might be anywhere from $100-$200). So, if their “allowed amount” is $100, that means you would get back $50 per session.