What are the benefits of therapy?

Mental health professionals are trained in offering accurate feedback and assisting you with new ways of thinking and behaving. Research has found that psychotherapy can improve relationships and daily functioning, increase self-esteem and decrease the negative symptoms of depression, anxiety and other mental health disturbances.

What is a counseling session like?

During the 50-60 minute therapy “hour,” you will be asked to tell your story and examine your thoughts, feelings and behavior. It is the counselor’s job to listen and offer new perspectives for consideration. Therapy is not like receiving antibiotics to cure an infection or setting a broken leg. It is a collaborative process where success is best predicted by the level of rapport between therapist and patient, the level of dysfunction, and the commitment of the patient to do what’s necessary to get well. Successful patients listen to feedback, complete “homework,” and work on new skills between therapy sessions.

How long does therapy take?

The length of treatment depends on a number of factors, including the nature of the problem, the goals of treatment, and a continuous review of progress by therapist and patient.

What happens during couples or family counseling?

Couple and family counseling sessions tend to be more active than individual sessions as participants are expected to interact with one another and actively try new things. Clients may be asked to participate in role plays or experiential exercises.

Do you prescribe medication?

I do not prescribe medications but refer patients for psychiatric consultation if I believe it may be helpful.

How can I pay for my sessions?

Fees are due and payable at the end of each session unless other arrangements have been made. I accept cash, check, and credit cards (with a $2.00 processing fee).

Do you accept insurance?

I am on the panels for Blue Cross Blue Shield, Private Health Care Systems, Multiplan, Texas True Choice and Medicare. If I do not accept your insurance, you may want to check to see if your plan provides out-of-network benefits. If it does, I can either bill the insurance company for you or provide you with a receipt that will allow you to bill the company yourself.

How do I submit an Out of Network Claim?

Call the customer service number for Mental Health and Substance Abuse Claims (NOT Medical Claims) and get information on where to send the information for processing and what they need to be included with the fee receipt I provide for you. Clarifying what they need and where to send it is the best way to avoid a delay in the processing of your claim. This is a very common procedure for the insurance company, and once you have this information submitting your claims will be easy.

What happens if I need to cancel my session?

Sessions can be cancelled free of charge as long as you give notification at least 24 hours in advance. As I cannot schedule anyone else in your session time (i.e., I cannot “double book” like physicians or dentists), I must charge the complete session fee if insufficient notice is given.

Can I add you as a friend on Facebook?

Unfortunately, therapists and clients cannot connect via social networking methods because it violates my mandate to maintain confidentiality. Please read my Confidentiality section or discuss this with me if you have further questions