Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I need outside professional help?
You are probably very good at holding things together, and of course, you are the expert on your own life. However, sometimes we get off track or we get stuck, and the tools we have used in the past no longer work for us. Sometimes our emotions can cloud our judgment or block our clarity.
I am a professional with years of training and experience dedicated to helping people improve their lives. I can help you approach your situation in a new way - teach you new skills, and gain different perspectives. I will listen to you without any judgment or expectations, and I can help you learn to listen to, and trust yourself. Therapy is a safe space and anything you share is confidential.
Some seek therapy because they are in crisis, however, others come to therapy for other reasons, such as seeking more intimacy in a marriage, feeling inadequate as a parent, or when considering a divorce. But, you do not need to have a major problem to see a therapist. All that is required is a desire to want more for yourself and a willingness to try something different.
When you experience negative emotions or problematic symptoms that do not go away or that impact important areas of your life, having the support of a professional can be a great relief.
I have never been in therapy. What can I expect?
You may call or e-mail me anytime. I typically respond quite quickly during business hours. Once we speak on the phone and you feel comfortable that you want to meet, we will schedule our first appointment. I will send you paperwork to fill out online so I may prepare for our first session.
During the first session you can expect to discuss the current events happening in your life and your personal history, including some details about your social life, your health and your family. At the end of the first session, we will discuss your goals, and we will decide together if we are a good fit and how we would like to proceed.
What happens after the first session?
Typically, we meet on a weekly basis, on a specific day, and at a regular time. Depending on your needs, therapy may be short or long-term. Every situation is different and I tailor my approach to your individual needs. As you find relief and continue to feel well for a period of time, we may decide to meet every other week, once a month, or end therapy.
The ultimate purpose of therapy is to help you learn about how to improve your life. I sometimes assign “homework” that is designed to help the process move forward. Results occur most quickly when you practice the skills learned in session and participate in the healing process by doing any assigned homework. Therapy is not a quick fix, but it does work if you are willing, open and committed.
I have never talked to anyone. I am used to handling things on my own or sharing with my family or friends. Aren’t people who go to therapy weak?
Actually, asking for help takes a tremendous amount of courage. When we continue to try to work things out on our own, we inevitably find ourselves right back where we started. Everyone needs help or a different perspective now and then.
Sometimes, we feel uncomfortable with our emotions, or don’t want to burden family or friends with our problems. In therapy, you can feel free to express yourself fully, knowing that everything you share is private and confidential.
Do you accept insurance? What is your fee?
I do not take insurance. I can provide you with an itemized bill, called a “superbill,” each month that you may submit for direct reimbursement from your insurance company according yo your plan. Ask your insurance provider if they cover “out of network services”. The typical CPT code used is 90834.
My fee is $265 per 45 minute session. I also offer intensives that range from 90 - 120 minutes. These are $530 - $700. Sometimes we may schedule a longer session or go over the allotted time; if so, extended sessions are charged at a pro-rated fee.
Can’t I just take medication?
While medication can be effective, medication alone is typically not sufficient to achieve relief. Research demonstrates that medicine is most effective when used in conjunction with therapy.
What is a Good Faith Estimate
Under Section 2799B-6 of the Public Health Service Act, health care providers and health care facilities are required to inform individuals who are not enrolled in a plan or coverage or a Federal health care program, or not seeking to file a claim with their plan or coverage both orally and in writing of their ability, upon request or at the time of scheduling health care items and services, to receive a “Good Faith Estimate” of expected charges.
You have the right to receive a “Good Faith Estimate” explaining how much your medical care will cost
Under the law, health care providers need to give patients who don’t have insurance or who are not using insurance an estimate of the bill for medical items and services.
You have the right to receive a Good Faith Estimate for the total expected cost of any non-emergency items or services. This includes related costs like medical tests, prescription drugs, equipment, and hospital fees.
Make sure your health care provider gives you a Good Faith Estimate in writing at least 1 business day before your medical service or item. You can also ask your health care provider, and any other provider you choose, for a Good Faith Estimate before you schedule an item or service.
If you receive a bill that is at least $400 more than your Good Faith Estimate, you can dispute the bill.
Make sure to save a copy or picture of your Good Faith Estimate. For questions or more information about your right to a Good Faith Estimate, visit www.cms.gov/nosurprises
Still not sure?
Change is strange, and sometimes we get comfortable in situations we know are not the best for us. Making changes can seem scary, but you do not have to face it alone. Whether you are ready and eager to make a change or you are still on the fence about whether therapy is right for you . . . let’s talk.