Frequently Asked Questions
Do you accept insurance?
I currently only offer self-pay options for clients. Depending on your insurance carrier, I can provide a super-bill as an out-of-network service. We can discuss options during our initial consultation. However, to determine if this is an option for you, please inquire about the following from your insurance provider:
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Do you reimburse out-of-network mental health providers? If so, what percent do you reimburse?
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What is my annual deductible, and have I met it?
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What is the process for submitting super-bills for reimbursement?
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Here is a brief outline as well about how working through insurance and private pay can differ.
Insurance
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You are limited in what therapists may be available to you based on who is in their network
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Insurance requires a mental health diagnosis that goes on your medical record. Some may not find a diagnosis desirable, helpful, or necessary, while others might find it very helpful.
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Insurance often limits the number and frequency of sessions, meaning you may have to finish counseling before you are ready.
Private Pay
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You are free to choose your own therapist based on who will be the best fit for your needs
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You only have to seek a diagnosis if you find it helpful. There are many reasons to seek counseling that are not covered by insurance because they are not “diagnosable” by insurance.
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You do not have to set a limit on the number of sessions offered. The amount of counseling sessions is dependent on the goals of each client. Together, we will work to determine how many sessions would be most beneficial for you and can reevaluate later on in the therapy process if adjustments need to be made.
Do you offer a sliding scale payment option?
Yes, I currently have a limited-spot sliding scale. Please inquire for more information.
What is the difference between counseling and therapy?
These terms may seem different but can actually be used interchangeably. As a counselor, I operate under the Oregon Board of License Professional Counselors and Therapist, which is in charge of regulating professional counselors as well as marriage and family therapists. There can be slight differences in our graduate coursework but counselors and therapists maintain the same qualifications under the regulatory board. More information can be found here, on the Oregon Board Website.
What does the title "Professional Counselor Associate" mean?
This title is given to counselors and therapists who are still in the process of working towards full licensure. This means that I have completed all necessary schooling, graduate studies and counseling session hours to be a practicing professional in the field of counseling. As I work towards the title of licensed professional counselor I am required to continue to receive supervision from a licensed counseling supervisor who supports me in consulting on clients and continuing to grow my skills in the field. It is common and encouraged that all counseling professionals, no matter their title or time in the field, consult with other professionals on occasion in order to provide the best care to their clients and avoid bias. Please feel free to ask me more about this, or check out this article about why it can be helpful to work with a newer professional.
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The Hidden Benefits of Working with a Pre-Licensed Therapist