Frequently Asked Questions
Most frequent questions and answers
How do I choose a therapist?
Theoretical learning of the therapist (for example, CBT or psychodynamic) is important for some people. If you are very solution focused you would probably prefer a behaviorally oriented therapist, so someone who practices Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Mindfulness based therapies, Dialectical Behavior Therapy… to name a few. If you would prefer an approach that is more focused on introspection about your past history you might prefer someone with a psychodynamic orientation, Psychoanalysis would be the primary example of this. However, when you find a therapist you mesh well with the theoretical orientation may not matter so much. Other factors to consider are the age of the therapist, level of experience, gender, and how you get along when you meet the first time (or over an initial phone call). We understand when someone might schedule a few sessions with different therapists to see which one they most prefer.
What does therapy cost?
If you are using insurance (we accept Blue Cross Blue Shield) you may be able to see what your deductible and copay are on the company’s website. If you pay out of pocket, your insurance may also cover sessions with Out of Network (OON) coverage. At our practice, sessions range in price from $100-$200 depending on the location and therapist as well as the financial circumstances of the patient.
How often should I anticipate coming to sessions?
We utilize cognitive behavioral therapy at my practice which also includes mindfulness based methods. We don’t utilize psychodynamic methods very often which would differentiate us from some other therapists. Additionally some of our therapists have specialized training in mindfulness based CBT and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, as well as some other specialized therapies (look at each clinician’s information to learn more).
Do you prescribe medicine?
At this time we do not have providers at this practice who prescribe medication. We do refer to local psychiatrists. Overall, medication is a personal choice that at times is more clearly medically necessary and at times another tool in the toolbox to help a patient with other behavioral techniques.
How do you differ from other forms of therapy/other therapists?
Sessions are traditionally once a week, some patients may come twice a week, some every other week. The frequency of sessions will be assessed when you come to your initial intake session.
What if I have to cancel?
If you cancel 24 hours before your appointment we can possibly offer the spot to another patient and you will not be charged. If you cancel after that 24 hour time period you will be charged the full session fee.
I just can’t meditate. How can you help me?
We find it can be very difficult for a person to meditate when one’s mind is racing, chaotic, unable to sit still. However, that is exactly the stuff meditation will help with. If this question resonates with you, and you want to pursue a meditation practice, we will start with very short meditations, even less than a minute if needed. Your therapist will teach you how to practice and think in this different, if at time uncomfortable way.
Can we do our visits in person or on telemedicine platforms?
With the pandemic, we have been able to conduct almost 100% of our session via telehealth (phone and/or video sessions). Insurance companies have agreed to reimburse us for these sessions until November 2021. This date will most likely change but we are keeping ourselves and our patients up to date with these guidelines. Outside of payments, some therapists are going to return to office sessions soon, and this is something that can be discussed with your therapist upon first contact. Generally we use Zoom professional as our telemedicine platform as well as telephone calls. Other video platforms that are hipaa compliant can and may be used if needed.
Will going to therapy be on my record?
There are a few answers to this. If you want to use your insurance, yes there will be a record that you went to psychotherapy with xxx diagnosis for xxx time. Other than that, your record with us is confidential, that means we cannot disclose any information you tell us. Your information will only be shared if you agree to it and you give us informed consent, or you are a danger to yourself or others, or there is a concern of child abuse.
Can I communicate with my therapist at any time?
No, this is something to be discussed with your therapist and is decided upon by the therapeutic plan created for you.
What happens during a session?
The first couple sessions are devoted to learning about your history, your life, psychologically, physically and socially. Your therapist will create a treatment plan to guide your ongoing therapy. You can expect to answer lots of questions, to have ample space to talk and to be assigned homework assignments in between sessions.
What does homework look like?
It can be many different things. Worksheets, meditations, books to read, scheduled appointments to keep (ie. Go to the gym this week).
