FEES & METHOD OF PAYMENT: I work on a sliding scale where insurance does not cover the therapy. In nearly all cases, fees are paid each session. (This is true for both self-pay clients and for those making a co-payment.) I will bill insurance companies and provide statements for you to be reimbursed from your health care plan, if necessary. Generally, I do not bill you for the portion of your payment for which you are responsible. I accept checks, cash, Visa and MasterCard.
INSURANCE PLANS: I am a Value Options provider. Generally, my services are covered by Blue Cross and Blue Shield as an out of plan provider. My services also are covered by virtually all regular third-party provider plans. For other HMO and PPO plans, my services will be covered as an out of plan provider if the plan has this option (many do but you must check with your provider to be sure).
FREQUENCY OF SESSIONS: In my 25 years of experience, I have learned that what makes therapy work is a committment by both client and therapist to go as deep as possible and to hang in there during the sometimes rough ride. This means that weekly sessions are the norm until the issues are resolved. Some cases require either extended sessions or twice-weekly sessions. During the termination phase, sessions are scheduled less often.
LENGTH OF SESSIONS: I keep the standard 45-50-minute hour for a single session and a 90-100 minute session for extended sessions. I make every effort to begin on time and end on time. I find that this is a habit which supports good therapy.
CANCELLATIONS: I normally expect at least a 24-hour notice if you need to cancel a session. If that is not provided, normally you will be charged for the session. True emergencies are rare in my experience, and I will excuse those.