WHAT TO EXPECT AT OUR FIRST APPOINTMENT?
During our first appointment, we will get to know each other. We will review relevant paperwork and I will answer any questions related to confidentiality, billing, etc. I will ask many questions to learn more about goals for treatment, relevant background information, current symptoms and concerns, and begin to develop a treatment plan so that I can help you to achieve your goals.
For minor children, I typically start the session together (with parents or guardians) and then meet with the parent(s)/guardian(s) and the child separately, if time allows. However, the child is “my client” and I always take their preferences into consideration. Younger children may prefer to have their parent(s/guardian(s) with them for the whole session while teens may want to meet alone with me. I am flexible and my priority is making my client feel most comfortable.
HOW LONG ARE APPOINTMENTS?
Each therapy session is typically 50-60 minutes in length to insure we have enough time to make progress towards your treatment goals each session.
HOW OFTEN ARE APPOINTMENTS?
At the beginning of treatment, it is important for us to meet regularly (every 1-2 weeks) in order to build rapport, establish treatment goals, and begin to make progress towards those goals. As therapy progresses, your needs and the frequency of sessions may decrease. We will work collaboratively to determine what frequency of sessions will best fit your needs while allowing you to meet/maintain your goals.
CONFIDENTIALITY
There are laws that protect the communication between a client and therapist. In most cases, the information you share with your therapist cannot and will not be disclosed to anyone without your written permission. Exceptions to confidentiality include:
Suspected child abuse, dependent abuse or elder abuse.
Threats of serious physical harm to others
DO YOU TAKE INSURANCE?
I am in network with BCPS PPO, BCBS HMO (Advocate network) and Medicare. If you have an insurance policy for which I am considered out of network, I am happy to submit claims to your insurance company on your behalf so you can receive any out of network benefits from your insurance company for our visits.
**As of 1/1/22, a new federal law (The No Surprises Act), was enacted to protect those who do not have insurance (uninsured) or are enrolled in a plan but choose to pay out of pocket without filing a claim with their insurance (self-pay or out of network). The No Surprises Act was designed to provide clarity and transparency around fees in order to prevent being surprised by large medical bills. This happens through a Good Faith Estimate, which is an upfront estimate given by your healthcare provider that lists services and expected/estimated charges you may incur as part of your care. If you are uninsured or will not be submitting claims to your insurance, please let me know at our initial consultation so that I can provide you with a Good Faith Estimate. This estimate is for your information only and does not involve any obligation or commitment. For more information about your rights under this act, please visit: https://www.cms.gov/nosurprises/consumers.
WHAT IS YOUR CANCELLATION POLICY?
Please cancel 24 hours before your appointment. Otherwise, you will be charged a cancellation fee of $75.
The reason for this policy is that, if you provide less than 24 hours notice, I cannot offer that slot to someone else. Unlike other medical providers, I do not double book appointment slots. Late cancellation and missed appointment fees are not reimbursed by insurance companies. Of course I understand that there are times when live is unpredictable: illness, car trouble, etc.
DO YOU PRESCRIBE MEDICATION?
As a clinical psychologist, I have extensive training and knowledge of psychotropic medications, but DO NOT prescribe medications. I do work closely with my clients’ psychiatrists and/or primary care physicians to coordinate treatment (with consent).