Q: Do you accept my insurance?
I am in-network with Aetna, Optum / United Behavioral Health, American Behavioral, Magellan, Carolina Behavioral Health Alliance (MedCost uses CBHA for mental health insurance benefits), Magellan, and Beacon Health Options (f/k/a Value Options).
I would encourage you to check your insurance plan benefits by calling the number on the back of your card and asking your insurance company the following questions:
- Does my plan require a doctor referral or prior authorization before I begin outpatient counseling?
- Do I have an in-network deductible and, if so, how much?
- Do I have any co-pay or co-insurance that I am responsible for?
- Do I have a certain number of sessions that are paid for?
Q: What are your rates for sessions?
Introduction Session /Assessment (75 Minutes) = $125.00
Regular Session (60 Minutes) = $100.00
Q: Do you offer a sliding scale fee or discounted rate sessions?
I do not offer a sliding scale fee, but I do offer a limited number of discounted rate sessions each month. If you have financial concerns, please talk with me about this and, if I cannot accommodate you, I will do my best to refer you to a person or organization that can.
Q: What is an Introduction Session?
I like to schedule the first session as an Introduction Session. The Introduction Session functions as a “meet and greet” to make sure you feel comfortable with me and we make sure that counseling would be helpful to you.
The Introduction Session is also a time for you to talk about what brings you to counseling including your current situation / symptoms, how you are coping, any relevant background history, etc. to help me better understand your issues and discuss with you what kind of counseling may be helpful to you.
If you feel comfortable and decide that you want to begin the counseling process, then you can schedule a Regular Session and complete the initial intake paperwork at that time.
Q: Do you prescribe medications?
No. Only medical doctors, nurse practitioners and physician assistants may prescribe medications. However, I can offer you a referral to a doctor for a medication evaluation, if necessary, and provide you a referral letter to assist in this process.
Q: How long does counseling take? How many sessions should I expect to attend and how often do I need to come?
Every person is unique and every person responds differently to counseling. Generally speaking, most people will begin to notice progress and/or symptom relief in approximately 6-12 sessions.
Ultimately it is up to you as to how long or how frequently you come for counseling sessions. Most people come weekly or every two weeks depending upon their situation.
Once they feel that their symptoms are better managed or they begin noticing improvements, they may decide to “check in” on a monthly basis for a period of time until they feel comfortable and, of course, they know that they are free to schedule a “check in” session at any time in the future if they feel necessary.