FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How do I schedule an appointment?

If you would like to learn more about counseling at Growth for Living, or want to schedule an appointment with me, call 908-342-2463. I offer a free 15-minute phone consultation.

How will I know if you’re the right therapist for me?

This is a very important question. You are dedicating time and resources and want to be sure you are choosing the right person. You should consider availability as well as personal factors (my training and expertise, personality and the “feel” you get). An initial phone conversation should be able to answer some of these questions. When you’re ready, schedule a free 15-minute phone consultation.

What can I expect from sessions with you?

My style is a cross between a counselor and coach - part learning, process and action.  I believe there is room for humor and laughter in the process. Even though we are tackling some tough stuff, smiling and laughing are good for the body and soul. The only way you will really know is to reach out to me. You can decide where to go from there. Being a good fit is important.

How long is a session and what is your fee?

Each individual session is 55-minutes in length. I offer a free 15-minute initial phone consultation. Cost per session is $160 per individual therapy session; $175 for marriage therapy sessions. Detailed receipts are provided for insurance reimbursement. Payment is collected at time of service. Credit, debit, personal check or cash are accepted. Cancellation Policy: If you are unable to attend a session, please be sure you cancel with 24-hours notice. Otherwise, you may be charged for the full rate of the session.

Is therapy covered by my insurance?

Like many other therapists in private practice, I do not bill commercial insurance directly.  If you have an insurance plan that includes coverage for out-of-network providers, I am happy to supply you with detailed receipts that you can submit for insurance reimbursement (typically covers a good percentage of my fee). Check with your plan directly to verify your coverage. Many insurance companies cover up to 60-80% of the fee. Please note I have opted out of Medicare. Medicare does not offer out-of-network benefits.

*I’d recommend asking these questions to your insurance provider to help determine out of network benefits: 1) Does my health insurance plan include out of network mental health benefits? 2) Do I have a deductible? If so, what is it and have I met it yet? 3) Does my plan limit how many sessions per calendar year? If so, what is the limit? 4) Do I need written approval from my PCP in order for services to be covered?

NOTICE OF GOOD FAITH ESTIMATE

You have the right to receive a “Good Faith Estimate” explaining how much your medical care will cost 

Under the law, health care providers need to give patients who don’t have insurance or who are not using insurance
an estimate of the bill for medical items and services. 

• You have the right to receive a Good Faith Estimate for the total expected cost of any non-emergency items
  or services. This includes related costs like medical tests, prescription drugs, equipment, and hospital fees. 

• Make sure your health care provider gives you a Good Faith Estimate in writing at least 1 business day before
  your medical service or item. You can also ask your health care provider, and any other provider you choose,
  for a Good Faith Estimate before you schedule an item or service. 

• If you receive a bill that is at least $400 more than your Good Faith Estimate, you can dispute the bill. 

• Make sure to save a copy or picture of your Good Faith Estimate. 

For questions or more information about your right to a Good Faith Estimate, visit www.cms.gov/nosurprises or call
1-800-985-3059.

Do you offer telehealth sessions, or do I go to an office?

For your convenience I offer both. I offer video telehealth sessions on a secure, HIPAA compliant platform called Simple Practice. It is easy to use via your smartphone, computer, or tablet. I also offer face-to-face sessions at my office in Warren, NJ.

How often will I see you?

I typically see individual clients once per week or every other week depending upon their needs.

How long does therapy last? I don’t want to be in counseling forever.

At Growth for Living Counseling, I will walk alongside you to provide skills and techniques to help you alleviate distress as soon as possible, while working toward your goals. I offer effective, evidence-based strategies helping you leverage your strengths and resources to build a fulfilling life. My job is to work myself out of a job!