Do I really need therapy? I can usually handle my problems.
Contacting a therapist can be anxiety and stress inducing in and of itself. There’s still, unfortunately, the stigma often attached to it and it requires an investment of time, emotional energy, and money. Some may fear feeling weak or needy.
Frequently by the time an individual comes to therapy they have already spent a great deal of time, years even, trying to address the problem on their own. Through therapy I bring years of experience working with others who may have similar issues as well as specialized knowledge and skill in addressing the underlying thoughts, feelings, and patterns that are maintaining problems despite my clients’ best efforts. I also often bring a fresh perspective and new ways of viewing old problems.
I expect all of my clients to have a better understanding of their issues and to see changes within a couple of sessions. For some clients, this is all that’s needed. Others benefit from longer term treatment and support, but I am always sensitive to issues of cost and will work to move you through therapy in the most timely way I can. We will work only on the issues you want to work on.
What does it cost? Do you take insurance?
Rate
My rate is $160 per 50 minute session – payable by cash, check, or credit card. I see a limited number of sliding fee scale clients as well.
Insurance
Currently I am in-network with Aetna, Humana, Magellan, Beacon Health, AVMED, Meritain, United Healthcare, and Tricare. If your insurance is not one of these, I may still be in-network, please contact your insurance company for information. For all other insurance I charge my regular fee of $160 per session and can assist you in requesting out-of-network reimbursement. Reimbursement varies by plan so please contact your insurance company for details. Your employer may also have an Employee Assistance Plan (EAP) offering a number of free sessions per year. Check with your benefits administrator for details. I can also accept HSA cards.
What can I expect in the first session?
After the initial introduction to my practice and confidentiality matters, we’ll dive right in to the reason you called me. It helps if you’ve thought through in advance what you’d like to get out of therapy with me. I’ll get background information from you as we go along if you have not provided it in advance. By the end of the session I’ll give you an idea of what I can do to help and we’ll agree on how we’ll proceed – how many sessions we may need, how often, etc. At every session you can expect to leave with homework of some sort – something to do differently, something to read, or something to think more about.