I have never been in therapy before. How does the process work?

​First off, it’s great that you are taking this first step. It can be difficult to reach out for help, but the majority of people who seek therapy find it to be an incredibly helpful process that gives them tools and strategies for solving their problems and reaching their goals.

You will start by calling for an initial appointment. The therapeutic process begins with the first phone call — it is when we match you with a therapist that meets your needs, which includes your availability and finances. Usually the therapist will call you back to schedule your first appointment, and you will be asked to complete initial paperwork via our secure, online portal. The first appointment is called an “assessment,” and this is the time for us to gather all the necessary information we need to develop a treatment plan. This will include a description of your current problem, the stressors that are exacerbating the situation, and any relevant information from the past. Ideally, we also gather information about your medical, social history, and whether there are substance abuse issues or concerns with your personal safety.

​From there we talk about your goals, and discuss strategies for the best way to meet those goals.

​Every therapist has a slightly different approach. The therapeutic relationship is the most important component of the process — you should leave the first session feeling some sense of connection with your therapist, and most importantly a sense of hope.

​How do I pay for therapy?

​We are currently in network with Anthem BC/BS and CareSource (through the marketplace). As a courtesy, we submit insurance claims to these companies on your behalf. Please keep in mind that you are responsible for any amount that is not covered by your insurance, which most often includes deductibles, copays, or coinsurance. It is your responsibility to understand your policy, and we ask that you pay any amount due at the time of service. We accept cash, check, and credit cards, including HSA cards. Keep in mind that not all of our clinicians accept insurance. Also, we are not in network with any Medicaid or Medicare policies.

​What if I have insurance but I don’t want to use it?

​There are times it might make sense not to use your insurance benefits, and reasons can vary from financial to concerns about privacy. When this is the case, we will ask you to sign a form indicating that you are electing to opt-out of using this benefit.

​I don’t have the resources to pay, but I really need to come in. What options do I have?

​Receiving quality mental health care should be available to anyone — not just those who have the financial resources. While we cannot offer free appointments, we have therapists who work with individuals an income-based sliding fee scale. If you are unable to pay the full fee, please give us a call to discuss this option. In the event we are unable to help, we will make every effort to provide you with appropriate referrals.

​What should I bring to my first appointment?

​On the day of your appointment, bring your insurance card, a list of any medications you currently take, and the names and phone numbers of any medical or mental health providers you currently work with. In most cases, you will have completed the initial paperwork via our secure web portal, but we may also need a signature or two when you come in to our office.

​How do you protect my confidentiality?

​Protecting our clients’ privacy is our highest priority. We store all client records in a secure, HIPAA-compliant electronic health record. Aside from those instances where you provide explicit consent (such as allowing us to release information to your insurance company, coordinating care with other health providers, or allowing us to speak with a trusted friend or family member), any information you share with us is confidential. Exceptions to that are rare, and include disclosing the abuse of a child or elderly person, or indicating you wish to harm yourself or someone else. If you have any concerns about privacy, please discuss these in more detail with your therapist.