Frequently Asked Questions
How much do you charge?
The rate for assessment, diagnosis and treatment is $400. per hour. Payment can be made by credit card and is expected at the time of service.
Do you take insurance?
No, we do not accept insurance, Medicare, or Medicaid. I will, however, complete forms necessary for you to apply for reimbursement from your insurance carrier. I would be considered an “out-of-network provider”, and would recommend that you contact your insurance carrier in advance to discuss this option. I also would be able to provide you with contact information for independent organizations which can facilitate applications for reimbursement.
How long does therapy last?
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is designed to be time-limited, strategic and efficient. Our goal is to help clients to feel better quickly, and to learn skills such that they can “be their own therapist”. While we offer “booster sessions” as needed, our expectation is that therapy will not continue indefinitely. Many clients and families notice improvement within several sessions. The length of treatment depends on a number of factors, such as the treatment goals, the nature of your concerns, factors which may be maintaining these difficulties, and engagement in treatment. To ensure you’re on the right track, we will set reasonable goals and monitor progress on a regular (even weekly) basis. You will always have the opportunity to ask questions, provide feedback, and modify goals as needed.
How frequent are appointments?
For the best chance of rapid and lasting gains, we initially recommend weekly sessions. It is possible to schedule more frequent sessions if needed. As you or your child experience a greater confidence in managing symptoms, sessions can be spaced out. As noted “booster” or follow-up sessions can be helpful to maintain gains. For children and teens, this can be helpful during stressful transitions, such as returning to school, during exams, while applying to college, and after graduation.
How long is an individual therapy session?
Therapy sessions are typically 50-60 minutes in length. Sessions can be extended if needed. The initial assessment and diagnosis appointment is typically two hours in length. It can be quite helpful as part of this initial appointment to review school and medical records, as well as records from prior therapists and clinicians.
Can I select my appointment time?
Yes. I endeavor, as much as possible, to offer appointments that are convenient for you and your family. After school and after work times are quite popular. Should your preferred time not be available, you are welcome to start at an alternative time and then move to a favored time when one opens up.
Do you prescribe medication?
No. I do, however, work closely with psychiatrists and other physicians. I would be pleased to work with your primary care physician or your child’s pediatrician, and would be able to provide you with a list of physicians if you would like to seek a medication consultation.
Is therapy confidential?
Yes. Confidentiality is the foundation of the client-therapist relationship. What you say as part of therapy will be held in strict confidence and will not be disclosed without your prior consent. It is essential that you and/or your child feels that you have a safe space to discuss thoughts, feelings, and concerns. As you’ll note on our Consent form, there are a number of legal and ethical limitations to confidentiality. I would be happy to discuss these with you at the outset of treatment.
As a parent, how will I be involved in my child's or teen's therapy?
As a parent, you are considered a very important part of your child’s treatment. You understand their life and development, and have a critically important role in their life. The level of parental involvement may vary, however, depending on the age of the child, presenting concerns, and other factors. Parent involvement can range from brief check-ins before or after therapy sessions, to parents participating for an entire session, or parent-only meetings. I endeavor to be available by phone or email should any concerns arise between sessions. When working with children and adolescents, gains are best maintained when parents help them practice skills outside of session and reinforce their child’s progress.
How do I get started?
Getting started is easy! The first step is to call and schedule an initial complimentary meeting to better understand you and/or your child’s needs. This typically takes 15 to 30 minutes, and can be scheduled at your convenience. We can then discuss treatment options and, if indicated, schedule an initial assessment and diagnostic interview.