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Frequently Asked Questions
We receive
a number of questions about our services. Here are a few of the
questions we're most often asked:
What is
Psychotherapy?
Psychotherapy is not easily described in general statements. It varies
depending on the personalities of the counselor and client, and the
particular problems you bring forward. There are many different methods
used to deal with the problems you hope to address. Psychotherapy is not
like a medical doctor visit. Instead, it calls for a very active effort
on your part.
Does therapy always work?
Psychotherapy can have benefits and risks. Since therapy often involves
discussing unpleasant aspects of your life, you may experience
uncomfortable feelings like sadness, guilt, anger, frustration,
loneliness, and helplessness. On the other hand, psychotherapy has also
been shown to have benefits for people who go through it. Therapy often
leads to better relationships, solutions to specific problems, and
significant reductions in feelings of distress.
What happens on my first visit?
Your first session, or “intake”, will be structured to help your
counselor understand the problems you are facing. Your counselor may
also ask you to take one or more tests or other assessment tools to
assist him/her in more quickly and thoroughly understanding you, your
problems, and how best to work with the problems you are facing.
What happens
next?
The
beginning stage of counseling involves clearly identifying the problems
you are facing. The second stage involves gaining insights into patterns
of emotions, thoughts, and behaviors related to your problems. You will
be able to use these insights to begin making changes. In order for the
therapy to be most helpful, you will have to work on things discussed
during your therapy sessions. In the last stage you will be encouraged
to actively apply or solidify new insights and skills to make change in
yourself and your life situation.
How often do I come to therapy?
Typically,
your counselor will schedule to see you weekly during a standing
appointment time. If you need to change your appointment from time to
time, we ask that you verify your next appointment with your counselor
at the end of each session. Changes in appointments can also be made by
phone with your counselor.
What if I need to be evaluated for medications?
Our
counselors are licensed and trained to practice as a
counselor and do not prescribe medications. However, they are
well-acquainted with most psychotropic medications and frequently
consult with physicians who prescribe these medications in an effort
provide you and your physician with observations that might be helpful
in your medication management.
What are the fees and is therapy covered under my insurance plan?
Our fees are
consistent with the moderate prevailing rates in this area. Please
discuss these individually with your counselor. A session is 45 -
50 minutes in length. There is an additional charge for testing,
and the cost varies with individual tests taken. If you have questions
about whether your insurance policy covers counseling services, you need
to call your insurance company or agent. For a list of insurance
companies we currently service, please see the list below.
Our insurance administrator can assist you in determining your benefits.
What if I can't pay the full amount?
If you are not covered by insurance and you have a limited income, you
may request to complete our reduced fee application. Your application
will be reviewed for eligibility based upon your therapist’s current ability
to assist. Each counselor contributes times and work to assist with
providing reduced fee services; however, the demands are often greater
than our practical ability to meet and are further limited by the normal
constraints of professional practice. Please discuss this in advance
with your counselor.
How can I pay?
We ask that charges for each session be paid in full
at the time of service. You may pay by check, cash, VISA, MasterCard,
Discover Card or
American Express.
Are you a participating provider with my insurance company?
Please
discuss this with your counselor as insurance coverage varies among our
professionals. Some of the insurance plans currently available may be:
-
Aetna
-
APS Healthcare
-
Blue Cross/Blue Shield
-
Cigna
-
CorpHealth
-
Heritage of
America
-
Humana
-
MHNet
-
MultiPlan
-
PHCS
-
TriCare
Military
-
United
-
UBH
-
Value
Options
Our therapists will work with clients who
are covered by other
insurance companies to apply for out-of-network benefits. |
