FAQS

Are you able to provide video sessions?

Yes. We are currently able to offer video sessions using a HIPAA-compliant platform in order to continue providing support to those unable to schedule in the office. We also have therapists who are continuing to see clients in the office. Contact one of our therapists directly or fill out the Contact Us form on our website to learn more.

What are your hours?

Each therapist schedules their own appointment times which can include daytime and evening hours. Some therapists have Saturday availability as well.
 

How long are psychotherapy sessions? 

Sessions are approximately one hour.
 

What will a typical appointment be like?

During your first appointment, your therapist will be interested in understanding what brought you into counseling and may ask questions in an effort to begin establishing goals and an appropriate treatment plan for therapy. The therapist will want to hear your history, including: family history and dynamics, significant relationships, work, substance use, cultural background, major losses, traumas, medical issues and any other information that may prove helpful. If a child or adolescent is involved in therapy, parents will be asked to provide relevant background information, including but not limited to developmental history, academic performance, and nature of social relationships. Even when a child or adolescent is the client, the parents will still play a role in therapy and may be a part of sessions with the child at times or may meet one-on-one with the therapist as needed.

If your reasons for pursuing therapy are very specific, a treatment plan may be established within the first session. However, if the concerns are more complicated, more time may be needed to develop a treatment plan with your therapist.
 

How often should I come to counseling?

Most therapists recommend meeting weekly, especially in the beginning, as greater results are often achieved with more consistent involvement in sessions. As you begin to make progress towards your goals, you and your therapist may mutually agree to decrease the frequency of sessions. Once goals have been reached, many clients decide to schedule sessions occasionally in an effort to solidify the new patterns and prevent relapse. Please discuss your questions regarding frequency of sessions with your therapist at any time.
 

Do you offer testing services?

We do not presently provide testing services but can make appropriate referrals if testing is deemed appropriate.
 

Can you prescribe medications?

We do not prescribe medication but can provide appropriate referrals if a medication evaluation is deemed appropriate. If you are already prescribed medication by a physician or psychiatrist, we will be happy to consult them with your consent. Your therapist will be able to help you monitor the effectiveness of medications your physician prescribes in order to help you and your physician find the right medication for you.
 

Do you accept credit cards?

Payment methods vary by therapist. Please contact your individual therapist directly.
 

Do you have a reduced or sliding scale fee for clients?

Many of our therapists offer sliding scale fee. Specific criteria must be met to qualify for the reduced fees.
 

Are you on my insurance company panel?

Therapists at Providence are in-network for Blue Cross Blue Shield PPO. Some therapists may be paneled with other insurance companies; please check with your therapist. Many insurance companies also provide out-of-network benefits and may therefore cover a portion of your mental health treatment even if your therapist is not in-network.
 

What do I need to know about submitting mental health services for insurance reimbursement?

To submit the costs of mental health treatment for reimbursement to your insurance company, the insurance company requires a mental health diagnosis in order to pay for your treatment. The diagnosis and insurance will be discussed with you and your therapist prior to submitting any claims to the insurance company.
 

Will my insurance pay for my treatment?

Coverage for services depends on your insurance plan. It would be helpful for you to verify coverage prior to your first appointment, but we will assist you as necessary in determining your benefits. Many insurance plans provide some coverage for mental health services, but there is a great variety in terms of deductibles, co-pays, and number of sessions allowed per year.
 

Will you bill my insurance company for services that I receive at Providence?

Yes, therapists at Providence will bill your insurance company for you, though some policies regarding billing may vary with each therapist. Please discuss details regarding billing with your individual therapist.