Payments and Fees Information:
The following information is provided so therapists and clients have a clear, mutual understanding of the business side of their work together. Please feel free to ask for additional information and/or share any questions and concerns about these issues.
Payment information:
- Credit Card via Square Up HIPAA compliant app (Credit card processing charges 3.7%).
- Cash or checks only accepted for in person appointments.
- For clients using insurance in network (BCBS) and seeing a Licensed Therapist, your billing will be via a third billing company called Headway (legal name is New York Medical). This is how it will show on your EOB or claim statements. Even if the copay is zero, we collect a credit card at the beginning of treatment.
Please remember we require a credit card on file at all times. Any balances due at the end of each month will be charged if not collected otherwise. It is client’s responsability to maintain payments up to date to avoid later charges. To secure credit card information, $1 will be charged at the intake and discounted from your next payment.
Please keep in mind that we cannot continue services after 30 days of due balances.
Fees & Insurance:
Fees vary by therapist depending on experience, trainings, therapeutic modalities and if they are in network with insurance or not. Please contact us to request additional information for a therapist’s specific fee information.
All fees are payable at the time that services are rendered (not when claims or invoices are processed), unless other arrangements have been made. All accounts should be paid in total at least monthly. Fees may increase periodically.
NOTE: It may be possible to be flexible in cases of financial hardship, in order to maintain the therapeutic relationship, while the client’s finances are reorganized.
In and Out-of-Network Service Provider:
We are only in network with Carefirst Blue Cross Blue Shiled BCBS insurance.
Some of our therapists accept insurance, while others do not. If a therapist does not accept your health insurance plan, you will be responsible for paying directly for services rendered – Client can submit for reimbursement from his/her/their insurance company. We provide assistance with information and receipts needed for submitting bills.
In order to determine if your insurance company would reimburse you for the cost of therapy, contact them directly. Most importantly, we will gladly provide you with an invoice to submit for reimbursement. However, please keep in mind that we have no control over insurance determinations and you are responsible for your bill with the practice at the time of the services.
Questions to Ask to Determine Reimbursement Eligibility:
- Do I have out-of-network benefits to see a licensed professional counselor?
- If yes, what percentage do you cover?
- How many sessions are covered and within what time period
- What forms do I need to submit to qualify for reimbursement?
Why do people seek therapy services?
People seek out therapists help for different reasons. Sometimes folks feel stuck and need to speak to someone to gain a greater insight into the issues at hand. Many times people use therapy services as a time of self-exploration and a way to experience personal growth. The therapist’s office can provide a place of sanctuary, where one’s thoughts and feelings are listened to and heard in a non-judgmental and unbiased atmosphere. Therapy can provide support and can help one to develop the coping skills one might need in order to manage issues such as depression, anxiety, lack of confidence, relationship troubles, unresolved childhood issues, bereavement, spiritual conflicts, stress management, body image issues, and creative blocks most effectively.
What can I expect in a therapy session?
The first session is a time of getting to know one another and a time of assessment. The first session is also the time when we both work toward determining if we are a good fit for working with one another or if a referral to a more appropriate therapist is needed.
Sessions last for 50 minutes, though longer sessions may be requested. For couples (60-90) are recommended. Generally, we will meet once a week; however, in times of crises or major life transitions, we may choose to meet more than once a week.
How long will I have to attend therapy?
Therapy can be a long or short term process. You have to be willing to explore and to address the causes for what is making you unhappy and willing to implement new replacement thoughts or behaviors. Some find that they are feeling better after just a few sessions while others find they require more sessions to treat more complex difficulties. We will work together to determine how often and how long we need to see one another as we work toward your goals.
Is therapy confidential?
In general, the law protects the confidentiality of all communications between a client and a psychotherapist. Moreover, information is not disclosed without written permission. However, there are number of exceptions to this rule. Exceptions mandated by law include:
- The court orders me to share information about you.
- You have a medical or psychological emergency and a doctor or hospital needs information to treat you.
- You present a potential danger to yourself and/or others.
- I think there may be child abuse or neglect.
- I suspect abuse or neglect of an elderly person or vulnerable adult.
How do I schedule an appointment?
Call +1 (703-231-7991) or email at isabelkirk@gmail.com
Do you have evening or weekend appointments?
Yes, evening and weekend appointments are available. So, please email or text for faster response.
