What To Know Before Your First Session
No surprises here. Information on location, pricing, and what to do about insurance.
In-Person and Telehealth
My office is located at 1728 East Madison Street, one block from the Trader Joe’s at 17th and Madison. Please be aware that the building has several steps leading up to the entryway and may prove an accessibility challenge to some. I also offer therapy via telehealth using Doxy. If you choose to do therapy over telehealth, please make sure to be in a private, quiet space to help facilitate the work we’ll do together.
Location, Parking, and Bus Information
There is free parking located around the building, although it can be difficult to come by sometimes. Please check any posted signage for specifics on parking limitations.
My office is served by the following bus lines: 12 and G are direct routes along Madison Street and drop off near my office. 8, 11, and 43 are bus routes that drop off nearby (within a few blocks, typically a 10 minute walk). Please check the Metro Transit website for additional information.
Fees and Pricing
Insurance plans currently accepted:
United Healthcare
Premera
For all other insurances, I am happy to provide a Superbill which you can submit to your insurance for out-of-network reimbursement. Insurance typically reimburses 50-80% for out of network, depending on benefits and deductible. Please check with your health insurance provider directly before scheduling an appointment as coverage can vary. Some plans reimburse a portion of therapy fees while others may not. If you have any questions about insurance reimbursement, I’m glad to help however I can. That said, clients are ultimately responsible for the full fee at the time of each session.
50-55 minute individual counseling session: $175
50-55 minute couples counseling session: $200
90-minute group therapy session: $65
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Do I have out-of-network benefits for mental health/behavioral health services?
Not all plans cover out-of-network care. Ask if your plan includes coverage for therapy with providers who are not in your insurance network.
What is my deductible for out-of-network services, and how much of it have I already met?
The deductible is the amount you must pay out-of-pocket before your insurance begins reimbursing.
After I meet the deductible, what percentage of the session fee will be reimbursed?
This is sometimes called “coinsurance.” For example, your plan may cover 60% of the allowed amount, and you would be responsible for the remaining 40%.
What is the “allowed amount” or “reasonable and customary fee” for therapy sessions?
Insurance often reimburses based on their own set fee, not the full fee charged by the therapist. For example, my fee is currently $150 but your insurance may only have an “allowed amount” for therapy with an LMHC of $130. That means that if your plan covers 60% of out of network claims, they would pay you $78 / session (60% of $130, the allowed amount) and you would pay $72 ($150, my session fee, minus the $78 insurance pays).
Do I need a referral or prior authorization for out-of-network therapy?
Some plans require approval from your primary care provider or from the insurance company before covering services.
How do I submit claims for reimbursement?
Ask about the process: what forms are needed, whether claims can be submitted online, and how long reimbursement typically takes.
Are there limits on the number of sessions covered?
Find out if your plan caps the number of therapy visits per year (or per diagnosis).
Do you reimburse for telehealth with out-of-network providers?
Some plans cover telehealth the same way as in-person visits; others may not.
Are there different coverage levels for different types of therapists?
Some plans differentiate between psychologists, clinical social workers, marriage and family therapists, and counselors (LMHCs in Washington, which is what I am).