Am I Able to Use My Health Insurance?
I have chosen to remain an out-of-network provider, rather than join insurance panels directly, due to reservations I hold about how our work together may be affected by the policies required by most insurance companies. Please be aware that insurance companies generally require a diagnosis of a mental disorder in order to reimburse for psychotherapy, may limit the amount and quality of your care, and may make the intimate details of your life available to third parties. I would rather not have our therapy limited and/or defined by these policies. Additionally, please be aware that I am not a Medicare provider. If you use Medicare, please inform me prior to our first session.
You may be able to use your health insurance to help pay for therapy if you choose to, however. You will need to check with your plan to find out their coverage for out-of-network providers. You pay my fee directly each session, and I provide you with a bill that includes the diagnosis and treatment codes that most health insurance companies require, which can be submitted by you to your insurance company for reimbursement. I cannot guarantee reimbursement from your health insurance provider.
What Forms of Payment Do You Accept?
I accept payment via credit/debit card, cash, or check. Should you want to use a credit or debit card, you would input this information via the secure and encrypted Client Portal.
How Often Should I Come In?
Ultimately that answer is up to you. Most people find that coming to therapy once a week (usually at the same time and day) is the best way for us to build a solid connection and keep momentum going regarding our exploration and goals. Other arrangements are always possible, however.
How Can I Estimate Therapy Costs?
Therapy fee per session is determined and agreed upon before we begin, ahead of any scheduled sessions.
Under Section 2799B‑6 of the Public Service Health Act, health care providers and health care facilities are required to inform individuals who are not enrolled in a plan or coverage or a Federal health care program, or not seeking to file a claim with their plan or coverage both orally and in writing of their ability, upon request or at the time of scheduling health care items and services, to receive a Good Faith Estimate of expected charges.
You have the right to receive a Good Faith Estimate explaining how much your health care will cost. Below find some general information about your rights related to health care and the Public Service Health Act.
Under the law, health care providers need to give individuals who don’t have insurance or who are not using insurance an estimate of the bill for health care items and services.
* You have the right to receive a Good Faith Estimate for the total expected costs of any non-emergency items or services. This includes related costs like medical tests, prescription drugs, equipment, and hospital fees. Please note that none of these items apply in my private practice.
* Make sure your health care provider gives you a Good Faith Estimate in writing at least 1 business day before your health care service or item. You an also ask your health care provider, and any other provider you choose, for a Good Faith Estimate before you schedule an item or service.
* If you receive a bill that is at least $400 more than your Good Faith Estimate, you can dispute the bill.
* Make sure to save a copy or picture of your Good Faith Estimate. For questions or more information about your right to a Good Faith Estimate, visit www.cms.gov/nosurprises
Where Can I Find Information About Your Office Policies and Practices?
All of my office policies, practices, and forms are available through the secure and encrypted Client Portal. You will receive an email from me once we schedule our first session with log-in information, in order to access this portal. Existing clients can access the portal at any time with their log-in information.
Please email me to find out more, or text my office at 408–550-5101.
