FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS 

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How to know if I should see a therapist?

If you have any of these five symptoms, it is a sign to seek therapy:

You feel sad, angry, or “not yourself.”

You turn to drugs, alcohol, food, or sex to cope with life.

You’ve lost someone or something important to you.

A traumatic experience has happened to you or someone you love.

You don't find enjoyment in things you usually like, or you are having trouble with working, going to school, or taking care of your family.

What is the session fee and how long is the session?

An initial intake appointment is $180 (50 mins). Follow-up individual counseling is $150(50 mins). Cancellation/No-Show(within 48 hours): $100. Credit Card, Health Savings Account(HSA), Cash and Checks are accepted.

Do I have to fill out any forms before or on my first visit?

Yes. You will need to complete an intake form, disclosure statement, confidentiality form, telehealth disclosure statement, and service consent. All forms will be emailed to you after we schedule our first session. You can either fill them out online, or print them out and bring them to the first session.

Do you take my insurance?

Yes, we're an in-network provider with these Health Insurance Compamy:

Premera / LifeWise

Anthem

Regence

Aetna

Kaiser Permanente

First Choice Health

United Health Care / Optum

We consider an “out-of-network provider,” but most insurance plans will offer some reimbursement for counseling services. The full fee is collected at the time of service, and a receipt (called a “superbill,” either printed or emailed) can be provided for the session, which you can submit to your insurance company for reimbursement at an out-of-network provider rate.

Counseling is eligible for reimbursement with a Flexible Spending Account (FSA), Health Savings Account (HSA), or Health Reimbursement Account (HRA).

What are the benefits to not using insurance?

You might elect to not use insurance for privacy reasons. Throughout treatment, your insurance company generally needs a mental health diagnosis to determine "medical necessity." If there are issues processing claims, the insurance company may require additional clinical information, such as a treatment summary. Some of our clients have also expressed concerns about leaving a paper trail when applying for life, health, or disability insurance.

Will my insurance cover your services?

Insurance only pays for certain services to treat issues they deem medically necessary. Often there is coverage for an individual. Couples/marriage therapy is rarely covered.

How often do I need to see you?

Session frequency will be discussed at the end of our first meeting. Together we'll determine a schedule that will support your goals. Things to consider include your symptoms, their severity, your schedule, and how quickly you want to achieve your goals. Most of our clients begin with weekly or biweekly sessions.

Do you offer ONLINE therapy?

Yes, we do offer telehealth/online counseling. It is easy and convenient for those who cannot attend the counseling sessions in person. All you need is a computer, tablet, or smartphone with internet service. Our online counseling software is HIPAA-compliant, and it is a secure and safe place to talk about your issues with the counselor.

With what ages do you work?

Our practice works with individuals (18+),including college students, young adults and adults.

What LANGUAGE(s) do you offer in the session?

Sessions are offered in English, Cantonese, and Mandarin.

Do you offer Christian / faith based counseling?

I am a Christian and provide services to Christians and non-Christians.

 

Everything that is done in the world is done by HOPE.
— Martin Luther