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What does it cost?
My fee is in the mid-range for private practice psychotherapy in
the Atlanta area. It is my policy to discuss the fee during our
first phone call.
What can I expect during the initial appointment?
When we meet for the first time, we will begin working. Just like
that. You will have ample opportunity to begin talking about why
you decided to seek therapy, and we will begin to formulate some
goals. This is also an opportunity for us to get a sense of what
it's like for us to work together. If, at the end of the first session,
we decide for any reason that your needs would be better served
by someone else, I will do my best to provide more appropriate referrals.
How long are the sessions?
Sessions are 50 minutes long.
What about medications?
Only psychiatrists and other MDs are licensed to prescribe medication.
I do, however, maintain a close working relationship with a psychiatrist
who is knowledgeable, ethical, and caring. I don't recommend that
all my clients get on medication, but I have seen some very
positive results for non-situational depression and/or anxiety.
If at any point you or I feel that medications might be
helpful, I would recommend that you make an appointment for
an evaluation, however the final choice is always yours.
Are some psychotherapists much better
than others?
Some are much better than others.
Why do psychotherapists charge for
the session when
the client is unable to give 24 hours notice?
Because of our scheduling. Not only because we could schedule
someone else in the lost hour, but because we would miss the ability
to change our own schedules.
What about confidentiality?
You need to be able to trust your therapist with what are often
very private thoughts and feelings. This will be one of the subjects
covered when we meet for the first time, so that you are clear about
your confidentiality and my privacy policy.
Do you accept insurance?
No, but you may be covered . Typically my client's pay me at every
appointment, although some people like paying by the month. For
those of you with PPO's, I have found that many of them will reimburse
you for my services. I am happy to provide you with monthly statements
for you to submit for reimbursement. HMO's usually require that
you choose a therapist on their panel, and I am not on any insurance
panels because I choose not to work for quite as little as they
ask for. I will consider a sliding fee for those in need.
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