Scheduling and Cancellation Policy. Please be aware that all of my patients see me for psychotherapy. I do not offer medication management visits or other types of infrequent or irregularly occurring appointments. This means that I see a small number of patients for reoccurring appointments on a long-term basis. Our psychotherapeutic work together is a commitment, and you are reserving time with me in my office. Given the above structure of my practice, I ask that you give me a week of notice if you are going to miss a session, so that I can have a chance to try to fill the time slot. You will not be charged for the session. However, if you give me less than a week of notice and I am unable to fill your time slot, you will be charged. I understand that emergencies can happen, and these will be discussed in person on a case-by-case basis. I am happy to offer video or phone sessions to patients who are experiencing illness. Please be aware that I am often unable to offer to reschedule a missed session for a different time in the week, because as mentioned above, other times are filled with regularly reoccurring appointments. Extended absences will need to be discussed in advance so that we can form an individualized plan.
Payment. Payment is due at the time of service unless we have arranged otherwise. I accept payment by cash or check, or electronically via Zelle.
Insurance. While I do offer a limited number of spaces for insured patients (via Anthem Blue Cross) in order to serve a greater diversity of individuals, these spots are currently full. I am not accepting additional insurance plans at this time due to the fact that lapses in coverage, companies' resistance or refusal to reimburse for services, and the amount of time both my patients and I must spend arguing for coverage of services is extremely disruptive to the continuity and emotional safety of psychotherapy. I am not a Medicare provider.
Medication refills and authorizations. Medication refills involve multiple steps and agencies (my office, the pharmacy, your insurance company, etc.). Please keep track of your medications and inform me of needed refills 7 days in advance to give the process time and to ensure you do not run out.
Controlled substances. Some medications carry a risk of addiction, and I am very sparing in their use. If I do prescribe these medications, it tends to be at a low dose and for a limited amount of time. I do not prescribe alprazolam (Xanax), as in my clinical experience it tends to worsen anxiety in the long run and carries a considerable risk of dependence. I do not prescribe pain medications or medical marijuana for any reason, nor do I prescribe medications for conditions that are outside my area of expertise.
Payment. Payment is due at the time of service unless we have arranged otherwise. I accept payment by cash or check, or electronically via Zelle.
Insurance. While I do offer a limited number of spaces for insured patients (via Anthem Blue Cross) in order to serve a greater diversity of individuals, these spots are currently full. I am not accepting additional insurance plans at this time due to the fact that lapses in coverage, companies' resistance or refusal to reimburse for services, and the amount of time both my patients and I must spend arguing for coverage of services is extremely disruptive to the continuity and emotional safety of psychotherapy. I am not a Medicare provider.
Medication refills and authorizations. Medication refills involve multiple steps and agencies (my office, the pharmacy, your insurance company, etc.). Please keep track of your medications and inform me of needed refills 7 days in advance to give the process time and to ensure you do not run out.
Controlled substances. Some medications carry a risk of addiction, and I am very sparing in their use. If I do prescribe these medications, it tends to be at a low dose and for a limited amount of time. I do not prescribe alprazolam (Xanax), as in my clinical experience it tends to worsen anxiety in the long run and carries a considerable risk of dependence. I do not prescribe pain medications or medical marijuana for any reason, nor do I prescribe medications for conditions that are outside my area of expertise.