FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

What is therapy?

Therapy, also known as psychotherapy or counseling, is a collaborative and confidential process where you work with a trained therapist to explore and address various emotional, psychological, and life challenges. The goal is to improve your mental health, well-being, and overall quality of life.

When and where are you available for sessions?

I provide telehealth counseling by video for anyone in the states of Florida, Hawaii, Indiana, Michigan, and Nevada. Availability may change slightly from week to week and varies depending on my schedule. Generally, sessions occur Monday through Friday, daytime and evening. All sessions are booked on a first come, first serve basis.

What is telehealth?

Telehealth offers you a flexible and secure way to access therapy. You can now receive the same high-quality care you'd find in an office setting, all from the comfort and privacy of your own home. No need to commute or worry about scheduling conflicts; I'm here to support you on your terms.

What are your rates?

Initial Phone Consultation: Free for a 10-15 minute call

Initial Intake Session: $195 per 55-60 Minute Session

Individual Therapy Session: $165 per 50-55 Minute Session

I accept debit/credit/FSA/HSA cards and expect the account balance to be paid at the end of each session.

Do you take insurance?

I am not an in-network provider and do not accept insurance directly.

If you have out-of-network (OON) mental health insurance benefits, you may be eligible to submit a claim for reimbursement.

You pay me in full at time of service, and at the end of each month I will provide you with a special statement —referred to as a superbill — for you to submit for reimbursement to your insurance provider.

I make no guarantees about the level of reimbursement you will receive from your insurance company.

I suggest you contact your insurance company and research the following:

• Do I have out-of-network mental health or behavioral health coverage?

• Does my plan reimburse for telehealth (video) psychotherapy services provided by a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state you live (FL, HI, IN, MI, or NV)?

• Do I need to meet an out-of-network deductible? How much is it?

• At what rate will I be reimbursed? (if they ask for a CPT code it is 90837 for 60 minutes of psychotherapy, 90791 for initial intake session for assessment and diagnosis for mental health providers)

• Is there an annual limit on the number of sessions or the total amount that’s reimbursable?

• What’s the process for getting reimbursed?

However, it's important to note that to facilitate this process, I am obligated to assign you a 'Diagnosis Code,' as mandated by insurance regulations. This code will be recorded in your permanent medical record.

What can I expect during the first session?

In your initial therapy session, commonly referred to as the intake session, you can expect to discuss the reasons for seeking therapy, your goals, and your personal background. This session is an opportunity for you to get to know your therapist and share what's brought you to therapy. It's also a time for you to ask questions and discuss any concerns you may have.

What if I have to change or cancel my appointment?

If you need to reschedule or cancel an appointment, please contact me as soon as possible via phone call, email, or secure messaging in the patient portal. I understand that unexpected events can arise, and I will do my best to accommodate your scheduling needs. However, I kindly request a minimum notice of 24 hours before your scheduled appointment to avoid any cancellation fees or charges. If you cancel after 24 hours you will be charged the full fee for the session.

What is the difference between therapy and psychiatry?

Therapy (psychotherapy) is a talk-based approach that focuses on exploring thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and personal experiences. Therapists use various therapeutic techniques to help you gain insight, develop coping strategies, and achieve your goals. Psychiatry, on the other hand, is a medical specialty that involves the prescription and management of psychiatric medications. Psychiatrists are medical doctors who can diagnose and treat mental health conditions with medication when necessary. In some cases, therapy and psychiatry may be used together to provide comprehensive care.

How long will therapy take? How often will we meet?

The duration of therapy and the frequency of sessions can vary based on individual needs and goals. Short-term therapy may involve a few sessions to address specific concerns, while longer-term therapy may extend over several months or more for more complex issues. Typically, sessions are scheduled weekly or bi-weekly, but this can be adjusted based on your preferences and progress. I will work collaboratively with you to determine the most suitable duration and frequency for your therapy.

Is therapy confidential?

Yes, therapy is confidential, and therapists are legally bound to protect your privacy. Information shared in therapy sessions is typically not disclosed to others without your explicit consent. However, there are legal and ethical exceptions to confidentiality, such as when there is a risk of harm to yourself or others. I will explain their confidentiality policies during your initial session.

How can I get the most out of therapy?

To make the most of your therapy experience, active participation and commitment are key. This involves taking risks, being open, attending sessions punctually and regularly, completing assigned tasks, and exercising patience as you allow the therapeutic process to unfold. Keep in mind that it may take months to undo ingrained habits and patterns, so embrace the journey of learning and implementing new insights into your life. Beyond our therapy sessions, I strongly encourage applying the techniques and homework in your daily routine, as these practical steps can lead to more rapid and lasting positive changes.

What if I'm not sure therapy is right for me?

If you're unsure about starting therapy, that's perfectly okay. It's a personal decision, and you can take your time to explore your options. You might consider scheduling an initial consultation with a therapist to discuss your concerns and see if therapy aligns with your needs and goals. Remember, seeking therapy is a positive step toward improving your mental health and overall well-being.