Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do you take insurance?
Yes, in Texas, I take Aetna, Oxford, United Healthcare, Oscar Health, Cigna, and BCBS. In Louisiana, I can provide a superbill for you to send to your insurance company for reimbursement for out-of-network claims.
2. What are your self-pay fees?
$150 per hour. If you are requesting a superbill, you will be charged $150 per session. Your insurance company will determine your rate for reimbursement. If you have questions regarding reimbursement, please call your insurance company prior to your appointment.
3. Why would anyone choose not to use insurance?
Insurance requires a diagnosis following the first session. This diagnosis goes in your medical record, and some people would prefer not to have a mental health diagnosis in their medical records. Also, a mental health diagnosis is not always appropriate during times of significant upheaval or grief. If you have concerns regarding a specific diagnosis, please bring this up at your first session.
4. Do you see clients in person?
No, I only see clients via telehealth.
5. What is your training?
I have an M.Ed. in Counseling from the University of North Texas. My counseling philosophy is based in client-centered care, meaning that I meet you where you are and offer you a safe, nonjudgmental, and accepting presence while focusing on what you feel will be most beneficial to you.
I have completed additional training in grief and loss, chronic illness, anxiety, end-of-life care, caregiver support, and telemental health. I frequently attend training for additional depth in the areas of grief and loss, chronic illness, and caregiver support. I always work from a trauma informed perspective.
To assist clients with embodied awareness, I have completed Somatic Experiencing Levels 1 & 2, Hatha yoga teacher training (200 hours), Kripalu therapeutic yoga teacher training (300 hours), iRest Yoga Nidra training Levels 1 & 2, and Divine Sleep Yoga Nidra training. Embodied awareness, also called somatic awareness, is particularly helpful for those struggling with anxiety.
6. Are there any areas that you do not provide services?
I do not have training in eating disorders, addictions, or suicidality. If you are actively struggling in any of these areas, you will be better served by someone who has specific training in these areas.
Also, if you become actively suicidal during treatment, meaning that you have a plan, intent, and the means to carry out that plan, I will refer you to your local ER for assessment and to an in-person counselor in your area.
I have found that many people in the communities that I serve struggle with finding meaning and purpose and that this will sometimes show up as suicidal thoughts. If you are having suicidal thoughts without a plan or intent, we will monitor your needs together to determine whether you would be better served through in-person counseling.
7. What are your business hours?
I have very limited late afternoon and early evening hours. Current clients will be offered appointments first. For new clients, I will prioritize appointments for those who are grieving the loss of a close family member (or someone within the same household) and caretakers. Please email to check availablity.
My practice is not set up for crisis care, and I am frequently unable to respond quickly outside of business hours. In case of emergencies please call 911. If you think you need more support, please ask for referrals or check www.psychologytoday.com
8. What is your cancellation policy?
I try to remain flexible regarding cancellation fees. I typically do not charge cancellation fees if you cancel at least an hour in advance. If you cancel your appointment within an hour before your appointment time, the cancellation fee is $50. If you do not show for your appointment, you will be charged the full $150 for your session. Insurance does not cover cancellation fees. Please make sure that you check your internet connection prior to your appointment time. You may call, text, or email to cancel or reschedule.
9. Why am I receiving emails from Simple Practice and Headway to complete information prior to my first appointment?
Simple Practice is the electronic health record system that I use to store documents and Headway is the billing platform that I use to file insurance. Please complete all information requested in both emails prior to your appointment. Insurance information must be submitted to Headway as soon as possible; it can take 1-3 days for your insurance to be confirmed. A credit card will be kept on file for co-pays, self-pay, and cancellation fees. Fees will be charged to your card immediately upon completion of your session.
If you have any additional questions please email, call, or text.