F.A.Q.
Many people wonder about how therapy works. Perhaps, this isn’t your first go-round and you’re returning because your past therapeutic experiences served you well. Maybe you’ve tried this before and didn’t really like your therapists’ approach, or didn’t seem to really get what you were hoping for. Or, maybe this is your first time and you have no idea what to expect. Regardless, we appreciate you for being here and want you to know that we are here to support you through the entire process.
Therapy can be challenging, and rewarding, and scary, and exciting. Perhaps it feels uncomfortable or relaxing, draining or fulfilling. It can be all of these and much more… depending on what you make of it. Our jobs as your therapists start with helping you to determine how therapy can work best for you. Below, we’ve provided some commonly asked questions. If you have others, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We offer free phone consultations and are happy to answer any questions you may have or schedule an appointment.
“Every time we ask a question, we’re generating a possible version of a life.” – David Epston
Will you keep my information confidential?
We want you feel safe and comfortable to open up and share your story with us. What you share in your sessions will remain 100% confidential with only a few specific exceptions:
- Suspected child abuse or dependent adult or elder abuse. The therapist is required to report this to the appropriate authorities immediately.
- If a client is threatening serious bodily harm to another person. The therapist is required to notify the police and the person in danger.
- If a client intends to harm himself or herself. The therapist will make every effort to work with the individual to ensure their safety and in rare cases this requires contact to family members or other service providers.
You will always be notified of mandated reports. Please ask your therapist about the specific criteria of these limitations of confidentiality to ensure you have a full understanding of the exceptions listed above. Again, we want you to feel like you have a safe space to talk about these issues openly, and our goal is to support you.
If you want us to give/receive information to/from someone, we will have you authorize in writing the release of protected health information.
Can I use my insurance?
Unfortunately, we do not bill insurance directly. However, we are happy to provide you with a receipt which you may submit directly to your insurance for reimbursement.
The first thing you should do is check with your insurance carrier. Check your coverage carefully and find the answers to the following questions:
- Do I have mental health benefits?
- What is my deductible and has it been met?
- How much do you pay for an out-of-net provider?
- Is there a limitation on how much you will pay per session?
Do you have a cancellation policy?
We require a 24 hour notice if you are unable to keep a scheduled appointment. Our cancellation policy is a reflection of our commitment and respect for your time. A Late Cancellation/No Show fee applies for appointments cancelled within 24 hours. This fee is 50% of the cost of the service you had scheduled. For example, if you are scheduled for a 50-minute therapy session for $130, then you will be charged a Late Cancellation/No show fee of $65.
What if I need to reschedule my session?
Reach out to your therapist as soon as possible in order to discuss rescheduling options. Please note that if you are unable to reschedule your appointment or cancel prior to 24 hours before your scheduled appointment, you will be subject to a Late Cancellation/No Show fee.
Uh oh, I’m running late for my session!
We understand that life happens and things come up unexpectedly. Please notify your therapist as soon as possible if you are running late for your session and they will be able to discuss your options with you on an individual basis. You can still choose to come in for your session, however, we are unable to extend the time of your session and you will still be responsible to pay for the full cost of the service. Alternatively, you can discuss with your therapist options for rescheduling/cancellation of your session (note that if you choose this option you will be charged the Late Cancellation/No Show fee). If you are more than 20 minutes late and we have not heard from you, we will consider you a No Show and you will be charged the Late Cancellation/No Show fee.
What if I’m not able to afford your rates for services?
- We believe psychotherapy and supervision services should be as affordable as possible and we will work with you to determine a reasonable fee.
- Each of our therapists offer a limited number of sliding scale slots for those who qualify. Ask us about availability and eligibility during your initial consultation.