What happens during the first session?

Our work together begins with an initial consultation. The first session will last 90 minutes as there is a lot for me to learn about you. During this meeting, I will gather some information about what is bringing you in for psychotherapy as well as some background information (e.g. mental and physical health history, family history, employment, etc.) so I can determine whether my expertise is a good match for what is bringing you in for services. If I do not feel that I will be able to offer you the services you need or I feel that other services would be better suited, I will assist you in finding other referrals and resources.

How long does each individual therapy session take?

After we complete the initial assessment meeting(s), individual therapy appointments are the standard 53-minutes in length. These sessions will vary in the way they look and feel; it all depends on your needs. I believe my clients are the experts in their own experiences; therefore, I typically let my clients take the lead with what they are struggling with in the moment. Of course, this is an open dialogue throughout our session and I am an active partner while you express your concerns.

How many times will we be meeting?

Many clients ask this, and the most honest answer I have for it is, “as long as it takes” and “as long as you need.” There is no one-size-fits-all approach to therapy. One of the major goals of our initial assessment is to identify a starting point for our work before we will assess the ongoing progress on your goals.

Many times clients come into therapy for “short-term” work and we spend a few sessions addressing specific concerns in the moment; and often they return down the road when other challenges or struggles arise. As we work together, and as we progress towards your treatment goals, we will consistently be checking in on whether our work is meeting your needs or goals.

I find that starting out, most people benefit most from regular, weekly sessions. Having a regular weekly time helps clients to explore their concerns in a meaningful way, and allows me to get to know you and ways I can be most helpful. Therapy is an investment in yourself and your wellbeing. I work to make the most of our therapeutic experience together. Although I recommend meeting weekly – at least at the beginning of our work – to find a good flow, momentum, and fit, I will tailor the frequency of our work to meet your needs.

What about privacy and confidentiality?

Your privacy and confidentiality are of utmost importance to me. What we talk about in therapy is private. This information is not disclosed unless you provide permission for me to share the information for some reason.

The only exceptions to confidentiality are if I felt you were a significant risk to hurt yourself or someone else, if I find out about a child or elderly person being abused, or if a court subpoenas my records. More information about this can be found in the Informed Consent form you will receive prior to our first session.

What are your fees?

Therapy is an investment in yourself and your wellbeing. I understand that it can feel like a financial undertaking and I want to be respectful of your time and money. It is my goal to provide the highest quality service while committing to ongoing evaluation of our progress.

My current fees are $250 for the initial intake evaluation and $185 for individual counseling sessions.

*Please be aware that at least 24-hours notice is required to cancel or reschedule an appointment. If less than 24 hours is provided, you will be charged a late cancellation fee. Insurance does not reimburse for no-show/late cancellation fees.*

Do you accept insurance?

Yes!

I am an in-network provider with University of Utah Health Plans (Premier and Preferred), and Johns Hopkins EHP (for DMV clients).

For all other insurance carriers, I am considered an Out-of-Network Provider. This means if your insurance company offers out-of-network benefits, you may receive some reimbursement for the cost of my services. Most insurance companies that provide out-of-network benefits cover between 50%-75% of the cost per session. I happily provide the necessary documentation (a “Superbill”) for you to receive reimbursement for my services. I cannot guarantee reimbursement from your insurance carrier; however, I recommend that you contact your insurance provider and inquire about out-of-network benefits. You are also able to use an FSA/HSA card to pay for services.

Questions to ask your about your mental health benefits:

• Do I have out-of-network mental health benefits?

• What amount will I be reimbursed for the following services with a licensed psychologist?

  • CPT (Current Procedural Terminology, or Procedure):

    • CPT Code 90791 (initial consultation) at a fee of $200.00

    • CPT Code 90837 (subsequent psychotherapy sessions) at a fee of $180.00 per session

• Is there a deductible I need to meet each year before I can begin to receive reimbursement for sessions?

• Is there a session limit per year?

• Is a pre-authorization required? If so, what information do you need for this?

• Is there a specific form that needs to be filled out?

• What (if any) diagnostic codes are NOT covered?

• Are progress notes/medical records necessary for reimbursement?

Why don’t you accept more insurances?

This allows me to tailor your therapy to your needs rather than what an insurance company dictates. Please be aware that if you choose to use your insurance, I am required to submit a diagnosis to your insurance company and, should they request it, I am contractually obligated to submit your records and psychotherapy notes. By not dealing with insurance, our work together stays more private, less restricted, and overall safer. I recognize that if you are seeking gender affirmation services, insurance often requires indication of “medical necessity” throughout our work, which means a diagnosis of Gender Dysphoria will be in your medical record. Please reach out to me if you have specific questions about insurance and gender affirmative services and surgery letters.