Frequently Asked Questions

In the Lobby

I encourage new clients to arrive 10-15 minutes prior to the appointment to fill out paperwork. You are welcome to help yourself to water, coffee, or tea. I will find you in the lobby and invite you into my office.

 

In the Office

We will go over paperwork and information including my status as an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist under the supervision of a licensed therapist, limits to confidentiality, Sync’s 24-hour cancellation/rescheduling policy, the fee, and what to expect from therapy with me. I will invite you to share your reason for coming, hopes and goals for therapy, and, if there is time, something about your personal and family history. We will discuss the frequency of sessions and agree on a regular appointment day/time. Typically, clients attend therapy weekly at the same day/time. Depending on your specific needs, I may recommend more frequent sessions.

Standard fee per session

My standard fee is $100/50-minute session. For individuals, 50 minutes is usually sufficient. For couples, I recommend 60-minute sessions ($125/session) and for families with more than two participants, I recommend 90-minute sessions ($200/session).

 

What if I cannot afford your standard fee?

If you cannot afford to pay for basic living expenses (e.g., housing, food, medication) and my standard fee for weekly therapy, we will discuss your financial needs and decide on a workable fee. You will sign a sliding scale contract certifying your current financial status, agree to notify me of any substantive change, and acknowledge that the fee may change accordingly. I will check in with you periodically to reassess eligibility.

Payment

I accept cash, check and major credit cards, but prefer cash or check, if possible.

 

Cancellation Policy

If you do not notify me at least 24 hours prior to your scheduled appointment, you must pay the full cost of the session. Please note that insurance will not reimburse you for a late cancellation or missed session.

Out-of-Network Provider

I am an out-of-network mental health provider. While I do not work directly with insurance companies, I can provide a superbill for you to submit to your insurance company.

 

Questions to ask your insurance company prior to your first appointment:
  • whether you have mental health benefits
  • whether you have out-of-network benefits
  • whether your insurance will reimburse you for an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist
  • what percentage per session your insurance will cover for an out-of-network provider
  • whether all forms of therapy (group, family, couples, individual) are covered
  • what percentage for each form of therapy is covered (out-of-network)
  • whether you have a deductible
  • whether your primary care physician must approve mental health services.
Every person, couple, and family is unique.

 

Your characteristics and life experiences will impact how long it takes.

Your progress in therapy will depend on your unique circumstances. No therapist can guarantee that goals will be achieved after a certain period or promise a certain outcome. However, some therapies may follow strict procedures that last a specific number of sessions or treatment may end when the therapist believes enough progress has been made to address specific issues. This is not how I work. We will discuss your progress throughout the therapy process. While you may end therapy at any time, typically, we will work together until you have reached your goals.

 

My approach may affect how long it takes, too.

Most people begin therapy with past experiences of relational pain that impact current relationships and prevent them from achieving the life they hope for and the satisfying relationships they desire. Deeper and more lasting healing and change come from exploring and making meaning of these experiences in the context of a healthy, nurturing relationship. Much of the therapeutic work actually happens as we interact with each other. This type of work takes time. Typically, treatment lasts 8-12 months or longer. Consider whether you wish to embark on this journey or prefer or require a briefer form of therapy.

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