Practice Policies

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THE PROCESS

Over the first few sessions, I will be working to understand your situation, difficulties, and goals. Within that time, I will be able to offer you some first impressions of what our work together will include and an initial set of recommendations regarding frequency of sessions and therapeutic approach. You are encouraged to ask any questions you may have about this process or these recommendations. Should you choose to continue in therapy, we will review goals, progress, approach and techniques in an ongoing way and whenever you request that we do so. If you prefer not to continue, you are welcome to request a referral to another mental health professional, and I will be glad to facilitate that referral. If I think that it is in your best interest to see someone other than myself, I will let you know this, and again, I will be glad to facilitate a referral.

MEETINGS/CANCELLATIONS

Once an appointment is scheduled, you will be expected to pay a late-cancellation fee unless you provide 24 hours advance notice of cancellation. It is important to note that insurance companies do not provide reimbursement of these fees. If I am able to reschedule a missed appointment for the same week, I will not charge for the originally scheduled appointment. Fees are not charged if it is necessary for you to cancel on short notice due to sudden illness or legitimate emergency situation.

BILLING AND PAYMENTS

You will be expected to pay for each session at the time it is held, unless we agree otherwise, or unless you have insurance coverage that requires another arrangement.  If your account has not been paid for more than 60 days and arrangements for payment have not been agreed upon, I have the option of using legal means to secure the payment.  If such legal action is necessary, its' costs will be included in any claim. There is a $40 charge for returned checks.

INSURANCE REIMBURSEMENT

In order for us to set realistic treatment goals and priorities, it is important to evaluate what resources you have available to pay for your treatment. If you have a health insurance policy, it will probably provide some coverage for mental health treatment. I will fill out forms and provide you with whatever assistance I can in helping you receive the benefits to which you are entitled; however, you (not your insurance company) are responsible for full payment of my fees. It is very important that you find out exactly what mental health services your insurance policy covers.

CONTACTING ME

Due to my schedule and the nature of my work, I am typically not immediately available by telephone. While I am usually in my office between 9:00 AM and 7:00pm, I do not answer the phone when I am with a client.

When I am unavailable, my telephone is answered by my office assistant or is forwarded to my voice mail. I will make every effort to return your call within 1 to 2 business days. If you are difficult to reach, please inform me of times when you will be available.

In the event of an extreme emergency, please dial 911. You may also wish to contact your primary physician or the Delaware Crisis Intervention 24-hour hotline at 302-575-1112/ 800-345-6785.