Phoenix Counseling - Fees & Insurance

Frequently Asked Questions

What is teletherapy?

Teletherapy is the practice of delivering therapy to clients through a secure, online platform when the therapist and client are in two different locations. Our office offers online psychotherapy sessions (teletherapy) through video conferencing via SimplePractice, a HIPAA-compliant online platform that allows us to provide secure video sessions.

Is teletherapy as effective as in-person therapy?

Many people prefer teletherapy and research shows that online therapy is just as effective as in-person sessions. Clients can be in the comfort of their own home or office, enjoy the flexibility and reduced travel time, and some clients feel more comfortable and at-ease than being in a traditional office setting.

Who do you offer teletherapy to?

We offer teletherapy (psychotherapy through video) to residents of Arizona and services can be conveniently accessed on your computer, tablet or phone.

Do you offer in-person therapy?

As of June 2024, after many years of providing in-person therapy, our office has transitioned to offering teletherapy only. But clients will continue to receive the same high-quality, individualized care that we've been providing for over 25 years.

How do I schedule a new client appointment?

You can schedule an appointment by calling our office (480-598-9540) and leaving a confidential message, sending an email to kavita@phoenixcounseling.net, or completing the form on the Contact page. You may also schedule an appointment by clicking the "Request An Appointment" button located on the website. Your appointment request will be confirmed by the office within 24 hours.

Do I need to know what my goals are to make the first call?

You do not need to know what your goals are to make the first call. If you are unsure about what you need and have questions, give our office a call. We also offer a free 15-minute video consultation. You can schedule a free 15-minute consult by clicking the "Request An Appointment" button located on the website.

Do you have experience with short-term therapy or long-term therapy?

I have experience with both short-term and long-term therapy models. Short-term therapy is typically 12 sessions or less, and long-term therapy is usually a minimum of 6-9 months or more. Many issues can be resolved effectively with short-term therapy. Please reach out to discuss your needs and inquire into the types of therapy I offer.

How often do I need to come to therapy and for how long?

The frequency and duration of your therapy depends on a number of factors, including your schedule and life circumstances, the nature of your specific challenges and your coping mechanisms, your personal finances and therapist availability. We will work together to assess your needs, create a treatment plan and monitor/review your goals and progress.

What is a Good Faith Estimate?

You have the right to receive a “Good Faith Estimate” explaining how much your medical care will cost. This applies to clients who don’t have insurance or who are not using insurance for services. The cost of services depends on a number of factors including your provider’s fee, frequency of services, and duration of treatment. I am transparent about the cost of therapy sessions and we will work together regarding your overall care. For questions or more information about your right to a Good Faith Estimate, visit www.cms.gov/nosurprises .

How do you handle in-network insurance?

If you are using Aetna or Cigna insurance for counseling sessions, I use a third-party company called "Alma" to handle all insurance verification, billing and to collect payment (applicable copay or deductible). Session payments can be conveniently made online via Autopay through Alma.

How do you handle out-of-network insurance?

Many insurance carriers will provide reimbursement for psychotherapy/counseling visits under an out-of-network benefit. In this case, I will provide an insurance receipt (superbill) for you to submit to your insurance carrier for reimbursement. I would recommend that you first call them to see if services are covered. I do not reimburse session costs for out-of-network sessions or bill out-of-network insurance or secondary insurance.

What are your payment and cancellation policies?

Payment will be collected by credit card the day of your appointment. I accept payment by Visa, Mastercard, Discover, American Express and Health Savings Accounts. Your credit card information will be encrypted and kept securely on file through Stripe via SimplePractice when you schedule your first appointment. I have a 24-hour cancellation policy. Appointments canceled without a 24-hour notice will be charged $75. You can cancel appointments by email or phone. Our office does not accept text messages.

What can I expect at my first appointment?

Your therapy will begin with one or two sessions devoted to an initial assessment so that I can get a good understanding of your issues, background and your goals for therapy. The questionnaire you will be asked to complete prior to your appointment will help me get to know you a little better. Your initial appointment will be 60 minutes and follow-up sessions will be 55-60 minutes.

Do I need to complete forms prior to my new client appointment?

You will need to complete forms online prior to your initial appointment. Your forms will be sent via email when you schedule your first appointment. Your forms will include consent forms, a questionnaire, credit card authorization form, in case of emergency form and a couple of other forms. Please allow at least 25 minutes to complete your paperwork.

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