How much does counseling cost?

I offer a complimentary initial consultation and charge $150 for each intake and individual session.

Will my health insurance cover therapy?

I currently accept Aetna, Cigna, and Optum affiliated insurance. If you have other insurance plans, I suggest contacting your insurance company to check what they cover regarding out of network benefits. Many insurance companies provide partial reimbursement for therapist that are out-of-network. You will pay the out-of-pocket fee upfront and if your company provides out-of-network coverage, I will provide you with a superbill to submit to your insurance company.

Optum affiliated insurance providers include the following; UnitedHealthcare, UnitedHealthcare Shared Services (UHSS), GEHA - UnitedHealthcare Shared Services (UHSS), UnitedHealthcare Global. UnitedHealthCare Exchange Plans (ONEX), Oscar, Harvard Pilgrim, Oxford, UHC Student Resources, UMR, All Savers (UHC)

What are your hours?

I am available on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM for counseling sessions. If you need a session outside of these hours, we can arrange a consultation to create a customized plan for you.

Do i have to come into the office?

I offer both in-person and online counseling. Online counseling is provided securely through a website that complies with HIPAA regulations.

What is your cancelation policy?

Once you schedule an appointment, you will be granted access to my client portal. The portal allows you to schedule, reschedule, and modify your sessions based on your needs. I kindly request a 24-hour notice for any session cancellations; otherwise, a full session fee for late cancellation will be charged. I offer the option to waive this fee if you decide to switch from an in-person session to a telehealth session, or in cases of emergencies.

Can i get a discounted rate?

I understand that seeking therapy can be a significant financial commitment for some individuals. That is why I have set aside some individual session slots specifically for clients who may require a reduced rate. It's important to mention your need for a reduced rate during the consultation process, as this will allow me to determine if you qualify for one of these reserved sessions. Need for reduced fee will be reassessed periodically. My goal is to provide accessible and affordable therapy options to individuals who may be facing financial constraints, without compromising the quality of care they receive.

Why are many therapists moving to Private pay?

Confidentiality holds a crucial role within the therapeutic relationship, safeguarding clients' information. However, it's important to note that there may be exceptions to this rule, obviously in cases where a client's safety is at risk but also when insurance utilization is involved. Insurance companies have the right to conduct audits on session notes and treatment plans to ensure that there is no fraudulent activity or unnecessary use of services. What this means is your information can (and sometimes will) be read by insurance auditors (that are not therapists). They have the ability to read your file and decide you get 6 sessions, 4 sessions, or no sessions. You and your therapist should work together to determine your needs.

Insurance companies also require a DSM-5 diagnosis for therapy coverage due to their adherence to the medical model and the need to establish each service as a "medical necessity." However, this often presents a challenging situation for both therapists and clients when the client's condition doesn't fit within the insurance company's specified diagnostic criteria. This requirement can potentially limit access to therapy for individuals who may be experiencing significant distress or struggling to manage their mental health without meeting the strict diagnostic guidelines. As a result, therapists often have to navigate the delicate balance between providing appropriate care for their clients and advocating for necessary treatment coverage from insurance providers. Despite these challenges, it is crucial for therapists to prioritize their clients' well-being and explore alternative options to ensure they receive the support they need, even if it means exploring self-pay or locating therapists who offer sliding-scale fees.

Lastly, when insurance covers your treatment, your medical record which will include session notes, treatment plans, and the specific diagnosis given by your healthcare provider. It's important to be aware that the information contained in these records can potentially have far-reaching implications for your life - from impacting your ability to obtain affordable life insurance to potentially affecting future job applications. Unfortunately, insurance companies and potential employers may utilize your mental health diagnosis as a basis for charging higher premiums or casting doubt on your capabilities. This inherently creates a discouraging environment for individuals who are seeking much-needed mental health support.The current system's lack of fairness and equity is a significant barrier for those in need of mental health assistance.