Frequently Asked Questions
What is mental health therapy?
Mental health therapy, also known as psychotherapy or counseling, is a form of treatment that involves talking with a trained mental health professional to help address and manage mental health concerns, such as anxiety, depression, or stress. Therapy can be helpful for individuals who are struggling with emotional or psychological challenges and want to improve their overall well-being and quality of life.
What types of mental health issues can be treated with therapy?
Therapy can be helpful for a wide range of mental health issues, including anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), eating disorders, and addiction, among others. Therapy can also be helpful for individuals who are coping with life transitions, such as the loss of a loved one, divorce, or career change, or for those who want to improve their relationships or communication skills.
What does our first session look like?
The initial session will be an initial assessment to discuss the client’s history and needs for treatment. During this first session the client will have the opportunity to see how therapy will work, review office policies, privacy and confidentiality, as well as determine whether or not they are comfortable with the therapist.
How does therapy work?
During therapy sessions, a mental health professional will work with you to explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and help you develop new coping strategies and perspectives. Therapy can take place in a variety of settings, including private practices, hospitals, and community centers, and can be conducted individually, with a partner or family member, or in a group. Therapy sessions can be weekly, biweekly, or monthly, depending on the individual's needs and goals.
Is therapy confidential?
In general, therapy is confidential, which means that the information shared during sessions is not disclosed to anyone outside of the therapeutic relationship without your explicit permission. There are, however, some exceptions to this rule, such as in cases where there is a risk of harm to oneself or others, or when required by law. It's important to discuss confidentiality and any potential exceptions with your therapist before beginning therapy.
How do I know if therapy is right for me?
If you are experiencing persistent feelings of sadness, anxiety, or stress, or if you are struggling with a specific issue or challenge, therapy may be a good option for you. It can be helpful to speak with a mental health professional to determine if therapy is the right course of action. Remember that seeking help is a sign of strength and courage, and taking care of your mental health is just as important as taking care of your physical health.
Do I need a referral from a doctor to see a therapist?
It depends on your insurance coverage and state laws. Some insurance plans may require a referral from a primary care doctor in order for therapy to be covered, while others may not. It's a good idea to check with your insurance provider to determine their requirements and to confirm that the therapist you are considering is in your insurance network. In some states, you may be able to see a therapist without a referral.
Can I switch therapists if I am not happy with my current one?
It's important to feel comfortable and supported in therapy, and if you are not happy with your current therapist, it may be helpful to consider switching to a different one. You can discuss your concerns with your current therapist and see if there are any adjustments that can be made to better meet your needs, or you can look for a new therapist that you feel more comfortable with. It's okay to take the time to find a therapist who is the right fit for you.
Do we accept insurance?
We accept Aetna, Cigna, Empire BlueCross BlueShield, Optum, and UnitedHealthcare.
Unfortunately, WE DO NOT ACCEPT Medicaid or Medicare versions of the insurances.
We are also an out-of-network provider, which means all fees are paid upon completion of your scheduled session and can be reimbursed if your insurance allows these out of network charges. We know this process can be confusing and we are happy to answer any questions that you have. While we cannot submit claims on your behalf, we provide invoices, or “superbills” for you after each session - which includes all of the information you would need to file an insurance claim.
What is the “Good Faith Estimate” or “No Surprises Act”?
You have the right to receive a “Good Faith Estimate” explaining how much your medical and mental health care will cost.
Under the law, health care providers are required to provide clients who do not have insurance or who are not using insurance, an estimate of the expected charges for medical services, including psychotherapy services. You have the right to receive a Good Faith Estimate for the total expected cost of any non-emergency healthcare services, including psychotherapy services.
You can ask your health care provider, and any other provider you choose, for a Good Faith Estimate before you schedule a service. For questions or more information about your right to a Good Faith Estimate, visit www.cms.gov/nosurprises.