At this time Skyward Counseling only accepts self-pay. Superbills will be provided for those wishing to seek reimbursement from their insurance companies. Those opting out of using their insurance in this way may be eligible for sliding-scale fees. Eligibility is determined by one’s family size and household income.
There are several reasons one may prefer to self-pay. For example, some insurance company may need evidence that counseling is a “medical necessity” and/or dictate aspects of treatment, such as the number of appointments. Furthermore, insurance companies require a diagnosis that then becomes a part of your permanent health record.
A diagnosis may not be ideal for individuals who do not meet criteria, are concerned a diagnosis may be considered a pre-existing condition (potentially impacting future benefits, coverage plans, or life-insurance rates), or simply want their mental health to remain strictly between them and their counselor.
When you come in for your free consult, you will get the long answer to that question. The first thing we will do is review several forms including privacy practices, informed consent, and practice policies.
The short answer is everything that happens in counseling stays in counseling. The only exceptions are if the court orders information, child abuse or neglect is reported or observed, or if you are an immediate threat to yourself or others. Keep in mind that reporting suicidal thoughts alone is not enough for me to break confidentiality.
With that said, if you have been court ordered to attend counseling, this may look somewhat different. In those cases, I often have to report to social workers or other such parties (after obtaining a release of information). However, I still do my best to keep your stuff your stuff! I only share what I need to and this is something we can discuss more when we meet and as counseling progresses.
To make sure we are a good fit for each other, I offer free thirty-minute in-person consults (optional). You can give me a call or e-mail me to set this up. Once you are ready, I will send you a link via e-mail where you can fill out the paperwork. If you don’t have access to a computer, don’t sweat it. You can fill it out when you get here or we can fill it out together during your session.
I have a 24-hour cancellation policy. That is, I ask for notice that you can’t make it at least 24-hours prior to your appointment time. With the exception of risk assessments, I allow everyone one freebie as I know life can throw us all unexpected curve-balls. After that, I charge the full fee. For this reason, I ask that all clients have a card on file. I will run your card at the end of each of our sessions together so you know when it is going through. Nobody needs anymore surprises! If you prefer to pay with cash on a particular day, we can do that as well.
I do not at this time. A lot of the therapeutic process tends to occur through sharing a space with another human being. I prefer to be able to read body-language and someone’s overall vibe. I think you’ll feel more connected with me this way as well. Furthermore, when it comes to working with children, I like to get down on the floor with them (on their level), interact through play, and teach them how to express themselves or cope with movement and various forms of art.
The current office location is not handicap accessible. However, if you feel strongly about seeing me over another provider, we may be able to arrange another place to meet. Give me a call and we can discuss what your best option may be.
