Frequently Asked Questions
How does telemedicine work?
I use a secure, HIPAA-compliant video conferencing platform to conduct online sessions. You will receive a link and directions to join prior to your appointment time. You can use any device with a webcam and microphone to access the appointment.
How often can I see you?
Frequency of therapy sessions will be determined by the severity of your presenting needs, your treatment goals and agreed upon treatment plan. However, in the beginning of the therapeutic process it is typical to meet weekly or bi-weekly, and then move to less frequent sessions every 3-4 weeks once your symptoms have stabilized and you are working to maintain progress.
How long are the appointments?
A clinical hour is booked for each appointment, which equates to a 53 minute session. Outside of crisis situations that may arise during a scheduled appointment, sessions may not be extended past 60 minutes in total.
What if after a few appointments we no longer feel we’re a good fit?
I know that I will not be the best fit for everyone and I will not work with anyone who I do not believe I can be helpful to. If during our work together we determine we need to terminate treatment for any reason, and you are interested in continuing with another therapist, I will provide you with contact information for other therapists who may be a better fit for your needs. Upon your request and written consent, I am happy to talk to your next therapist in order to help with the transition.
What are your rates and what forms of payment do you accept?
An Initial Intake Appointment is $165 and Individual Sessions are $150. Payment is due in full at the time of the session. I accept all Major Credit/Debit Cards, as well as Health Saving Accounts (HSA) and Flex Spending Accounts (FSA).
Do you take insurance?
I offer In-Network and Out-Of-Network coverage with a limited number of insurance companies. Please contact me to determine what insurance coverage you may be able to use. If I am an out-of-network mental health provider with your insurance plan and your plan offers out-of-network benefits, you may get reimbursed a percentage of the cost of treatment. Many plans offer 80% or higher reimbursement for these expenses. In these situations, you would pay for the service at the time of the appointment and then submit a claim to your insurance company after the fact for reimbursement.
What if I cannot afford your rate?
If you wish to use insurance, we can consider what insurance coverage you may be eligible for. You can use your HSA or FSA. Additionally, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me, as I may have some sliding-scale slots available based on income and financial situation.
What is your Cancellation Policy?
I do not overbook appointments and your scheduled appointment time is reserved specifically for you and you alone. If you cancel 24 hours prior to the start of your appointment time, you may reschedule with no additional cost. A fee of $80 will be applied to your account for any missed appointments or appointments cancelled with less than 24 hours notice.
What if I need medication?
Although I cannot prescribe medication, we can discuss your thoughts about medication and I can coordinate with your Primary Care Physician or provide referrals to psychiatric providers and support treatment, if it is agreed that medications are indicated. Collaboration between your therapist and your prescriber(s) is strongly encouraged.
Will you talk with my other doctors?
There is a significant interconnectedness between physical and mental health. It is important to stay up to date with your physical health, obtain annual physical examinations and work to manage any physical health conditions. If you grant me permission, I will collaborate with other professionals involved in your care to ensure we are working as a team to treat all aspects of you, as comprehensively as possible. I will never share information without your consent and I will always use the “minimum necessary” standard when sharing treatment information.
What happens when I think I am ready to end therapy?
You always have the right to discontinue therapy at any time. When it comes time to end the therapeutic relationship, it is best to plan for it in collaboration with me, so that I can responsibly review your reasons and make recommendations related to the termination of therapy.
What if I decide I want to return to therapy?
Since your life circumstances, recovery and healing, symptoms or needs will inevitably change over the course of your life, I hope you will recognize Catalyst Counseling as your home base whenever you need a safe place for healing. It is always a tremendous honor to accompany you on this journey and it is not at all uncommon to return to therapy after a period of inactivity. In general, I will welcome you to return to services as long as I believe I will be effective in helping you reach your therapeutic goals.
