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Frequently asked questions

 

Can I talk to you first to see if you are a good fit?

Yes! In fact, I would like to connect over the phone before we meet in person. I provide a free 15 min phone consultation to ensure that we are a good fit.  This allows you an opportunity to ask questions about how I will work with your individual issues.

How does payment work?

My fee is collected at the end of each session.  I accept cash, credit cards and checks.

Do you take insurance?

At this time I do not accept insurance, which allows me to provide the type of comprehensive care that I believe is most beneficial to help you feel better faster. I am happy to provide you with an invoice, which you can submit directly to your insurance company for reimbursement if you have out-of-network coverage.

How do out-of-network benefits work?

If your insurance company offers out-of-network benefits, they will reimburse you for some or all of the cost of our sessions. The best way to find out about coverage is to call your insurance company directly and ask the following:

1 ) Do I have mental health insurance benefits?
2) Does my insurance cover out-of network providers? If so, what is the percentage of reimbursement?
3) What is my deductible and has it been met?
4) How many sessions per year does my health insurance cover?

I am happy to assist you in coordinating out-of-network benefits with your insurance company.

What is your cancellation policy?

Cancelled sessions require at least 48 hours notice by phone or email. Cancellations within 48 hours will incur the full session fee. Please note that insurance companies do not reimburse the cost for missed appointments.

What is the first session like?

Initial evaluations are scheduled for approx. 60 mins.  This appointment is an extensive conversation consisting of questions about your current concerns, your past and what your goals are for treatment. At the end of the first session, I will provide you with my recommendations, which may involve talk therapy, traditional psychiatric medications, alternative treatments, or a combination of these interventions.

What if I already have a therapist?

I am happy to work collaboratively with your current therapist to manage your psychiatric medications. If we work together in this way, I believe in getting to know you beyond the symptoms that we are treating with medications. With your permission, I will keep in close communication with your therapist to ensure that we are putting our minds together to provide you with the best care possible.

What if I don’t have a therapist?

Presently, I am accepting new patients. Many of my existing patients choose to work with me as their primary provider for a combination of therapy, medication management, and alternative treatments.

What type of alternative treatments do you recommend?

I incorporate elements of meditation, nutritional counseling and holistic medicine with psychotherapy and conventional medications to help you achieve overall wellness. For example, I may recommended herbs or supplements in lieu of or in addition to traditional psychiatric medications. I teach breathing exercises that relax the mind and body.  I encourage regular exercise, healthy sleep habits and proper hydration. I may also refer you to one of my colleagues for complementary treatments, such as: massage, acupuncture, chiropractic adjustment, and personal training.