FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q. What types of insurance do you accept?
In addition to self-pay, I accept the following insurance plans:
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Integra
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Blue Cross Blue Shield
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Out of Network/Self-Pay
Q. What if my insurance plan is not on that list?
If you have health insurance, but you do not find it listed above, you can still choose to receive counseling from me as an "out of network provider". This means paying my regular fee per session out-of-pocket ($125) and I will provide you with a statement, or receipt, called a "superbill". You can then submit this superbill to your insurance and be reimbursed, usually at a rate of 80% of the expense you paid.
Q. What is the cost of therapy sessions?
An individual therapy session for adults and adolescents is $125 per 50 minute session. This is my regular fee, for those not using insurance.
There is a $35 charge for missed or cancelled sessions without the required 24 hours notice, with the reasonable exception of emergencies.
Cash, personal check, and major credit cards are accepted for payment of services (including FSA and HSA cards).
Q. How long will I have to wait for an appointment?
I often have a wait list for new clients, but I welcome inquiries to discuss whether being on my wait list is a good fit for your needs. I can also offer a referral to other providers in the area if that better suits your needs at this time.
Q. What can I expect during an initial session?
The first therapy session for a new client is a bit different from future sessions. You will find that the first visit is heavily focused on "getting to know you" by gathering important information that will help me better understand the concerns that prompted you to seek therapy. Obtaining information from you such as your family history, support system, and the symptoms you are experiencing will guide us in deciding how sessions will be most helpful to you. As with any other first visit to a health professional, some paperwork will need to be completed and issues such as confidentiality, financial arrangements, and insurance will also be discussed.
Q. How long will I need to stay in therapy?
The amount of time or number of therapy sessions needed to achieve desired treatment goals varies from person to person. Everyone is unique. The therapy process is no exception to that statement. At times, it can depend on the severity of the impact an issue has had on one's life. Other times, it depends greatly on the level of motivation and hard work put forth by the client to apply what is learned during sessions to the rest of life outside sessions.
Q. Are all the sessions confidential?
For the most part, yes. However, there are three exceptions to confidentiality. By law, when I suspect abuse or neglect of a child, this must be reported to authorities. Individuals of any age who are a threat to themselves or someone else, such as when someone is suicidal, must also be reported in order to ensure safety. The last exception is in the event that I receive a subpoena for a court proceeding to testify or provide records, however this not common in my experience.
Also, if you plan to use your health insurance benefits to cover the cost of therapy sessions, some confidentiality issues arise. Similar to when you visit your physician, insurance companies gain access to information pertaining to your treatment, such as sessions and diagnosis. If this is a concern for you, alternative payment options can be discussed to ensure a higher level of privacy.
For more information about confidentiality and your privacy, you may download the Notice of Privacy Practices (pdf file):
Q. What is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker?
A Licensed Clinical Social Worker, or LCSW, is a professional with a master’s degree in social work who has obtained a certain number of hours of supervised experience and has successfully passed an exam which sets a standard for mental health professionals. I am a LCSW in the state of Delaware (License # Q1-0000988) and a Licensed Certified Social Worker - Clinical (LCSW-C) in the state of Maryland (License # 28676). This dual licensure allows me to offer telehealth services to residents of both states.
Q. What is the difference between counseling and therapy?
On this website, you will find that I use both the terms therapy and counseling. The terms counseling/counselor and therapy/therapist are often used interchangeably to refer to the same thing. However, most in the profession would agree that there are some differences, mainly that the term therapy is reserved for referring to more long-term or in-depth intervention with a professional who is trained and licensed in their field such a LCSW or LPCMH. On the other hand, the term counseling often refers to more brief intervention focusing on the immediate behavior that needs to be changed.
Q. Do you prescribe medication?
No, I do not prescribe medication. Only physicians/psychiatrists and nurse practioners can prescribe and manage medication, however I do assist clients with this need by referring to medication providers in the area and collaborating care as necessary.