What are your fees? Are they different for Private Pay versus Insurance clients?
My Private Pay fees are listed below. My "contracted rates" with Insurance companies are typically lower, therefore I reserve a portion of my calendar for clients using their Insurance. Nonetheless, feel free to inquire about how we can best utilize your Insurance benefits.
Individual Teletherapy Session (50 minutes): $225/session
Individual
Therapy Office Session (50 minutes): $225/session
What is Teletherapy?
Teletherapy is a virtual therapy session using audio and video via internet like Zoom, Skype, Facetime, Hangouts, etc. Extra protections are made for your security and the platform is HIPAA-compliant. You can use your desktop, laptop, or mobile device (iOS or Android) - it's your choice. Insurance companies cover teletherapy sessions. Teletherapy allows us to connect with confidentiality and convenience that may save you time getting to my office. I've conducted hundreds of sessions online and find them equally as effective for both individuals and couples. If you have additional questions about teletherapy please visit my secure client portal's FAQ page here.
How does health insurance work and is there anything I should know prior?
I'm an in-network provider for most health insurance companies (Anthem, Aetna, Blue Cross, Blue Shield, UnitedHealthcare, Cigna, etc). If we agree to utilize your insurance, I will collect a copay at the time of service and bill your insurance for the balance. Co-pays and deductibles vary from one insurance plan to the next. For teletherapy, your health insurance typically covers it like an office visit. Please speak with your insurance company for the best information regarding your insurance coverage.
Prior to looking for a therapist or scheduling an appointment, determine if you have mental health coverage through your insurance carrier. The first thing you should do is call them. The number should be on the back of your insurance card. Check your coverage carefully and make sure you understand their answers. Some helpful questions you can ask are:
- What are my mental health benefits?
- What is the coverage amount per therapy session?
- How many therapy sessions does my plan cover?
- How much does my insurance pay for an out-of-network provider?
- Is approval required from my primary care physician?
What information do insurance companies gather from you?
Confidentiality is one of the most important components between a client and psychotherapist. Successful therapy requires a high degree of trust with highly sensitive subject matter that is usually not discussed anywhere but the therapist's office. Keep in mind that insurance companies sometimes request information about you beyond a formal diagnosis. If you choose to use your insurance, you must consent to release of clinical information between myself and your insurance company.