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FAQ

Billing & Accounts

Fee per session are as follows: Individual Therapy, $100 | Couples Therapy, $120.

Currently, therapy sessions are online via a secure, HIPAA compliant video link. 

Yes, I offer a sliding scale for fees. This means that I adjust fees based on your financial situation. The sliding scale allows individuals with lower incomes or financial constraints to access therapy services at a more affordable rate. The specific details of the sliding scale, including the range of fees and the criteria for eligibility, may vary from client to client. If you’re interested in therapy, have financial concerns please inquire about our current/available sliding scale slots.

I offer free initial consultations as a way for potential clients to learn more about their services and determine if  there is a good fit. 

The cost of therapy sessions can vary widely depending on several factors. Here are some counselling  considerations: 

  1. Session Duration: The length of the therapy sessions can vary (e.g., 30 mins, 90 minutes). The cost of  virtual group sessions may vary. Please note that sessions will end on time to respect the appointments of  other clients. Thank you! 
  2. Payment Method and Insurance: I accept insurance and operate on a self-pay basis. If using insurance,  consider copayments, deductibles, and coverage limits. If paying out-of-pocket, inquire about accepted  payment methods (e.g., Zelle, Visa, etc.) and any available sliding scale options. 

I have a cancellation policy. Here are common scenarios regarding missed therapy appointments:

  1. Cancellation Notice: I require clients provide a 24 hour notice period if you need to cancel or reschedule an  appointment without incurring a fee. 
  1. Cancellation Fees: I charge a cancellation fee if the client fails to provide adequate notice or misses an appointment  without canceling in advance. This fee is intended to compensate for the time set aside for the  session. 
  1. Exceptions: I do have exceptions for emergencies or unavoidable circumstances. 
  1. Insurance Policies: If you’re using insurance to cover therapy costs, be aware that insurance providers generally do not  cover missed appointment fees. Clients are typically responsible for these fees. 

Here are some common types of therapy documentation you might receive, before or after therapy:

1. Informed Consent Form: 

  • A document outlining the terms of the therapeutic relationship, including confidentiality, session  fees, cancellation policies, and the therapist’s approach. Clients typically sign this form before  starting therapy. 


2. Intake Form: 

  • Form that gather information about the client’s personal history, mental health concerns, and goals  for therapy. It helps the therapist understand the client’s background and tailor their approach.

 

3. Billing and Payment Receipts: 

  • Documentation of session fees, payment receipts, and any billing information. Clients may receive  receipts for payments made for insurance purposes or personal records. 

 

4. Termination Summary:

  • A summary document provided when therapy concludes, outlining the progress made, goals  achieved, and any recommendations for continued support. Helps facilitate closure and reflection.

 

5. Release of Information (ROI): 

  • Allows the therapist to share specific information with other healthcare providers or individuals,  as authorized by the client. This is often used for coordination of care. 

 

6. HIPAA Notice of Privacy Practices: 

  • A document informing clients about their rights regarding the privacy of their health information,  as required by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). 

 

Please clarify with your therapist which documents you can expect to receive, and if you have any questions or  concerns about the documentation process, feel free to raise them during your therapy sessions. Open  communication helps ensure transparency and a positive therapeutic experience.

If you’re unable to cover the cost of your therapy sessions, there are several options to explore to make mental health  care more accessible: 

  1. Community Mental Health Services: 
  • Look for community mental health clinics or nonprofit organizations that provide low-cost or free  mental health services. They often serve individuals with limited financial resources. 
  1. Insurance Coverage: 
  • If you have health insurance, check your coverage for mental health services. Verify that I am in  your in-network insurance plan and the portion of the costs that is covered. Also, your insurance  plan may offer employee assistance programs. 
  1. Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs): 
  • If you are employed, check whether your workplace offers an Employee Assistance Program.  EAPs often provide short-term counseling services at no cost to employees. 
  1. Government Assistance Programs: 
  • Explore government assistance programs that may provide financial support for mental health  services. In some regions, there are programs designed to help individuals access affordable  mental health care. 
  1. Nonprofit Organizations: 
  • Some nonprofit organizations and charities provide grants or financial assistance for mental health  services. Research local or national organizations that may offer support. 
  1. Online Platforms with Low-Cost Options: 
  • Consider online therapy platforms that offer lower-cost options or discounts. Some platforms have  subscription plans or sliding scale fees. 
  1. University Training Clinics: 
  • Universities with psychology or counseling programs often have training clinics where graduate  students provide supervised therapy at reduced rates. 
  1. Ask for Options: 
  • If you’re currently seeing a therapist, discuss your financial concerns openly. I am willing to work  with you to find a solution, such as reduced fees or flexible payment plans. 

 

Remember, mental health is a priority. There are resources available to help make therapy more affordable. 

FAQ

Scheduling & Appointments

Using the secure client portal, your therapist will email you an electronic copy of the consent form prior to your first session. Please note that to guarantee service by the therapist, all clients are required to send in (i.e., email Summit of Peace Counseling) a copy of their completed and duly signed consent form prior to the first appointment.

Client sessions are typically once a week or biweekly, depending on the severity of issues being addressed. Seeing each other weekly allows for the work to move along at a good pace.

Healing is a subjective experience and very personal to each client. We recommend for clients to begin therapy weekly, as this will allow you and your therapist to establish momentum toward your goals. We are open to shifting to more spaced out sessions as you continue to progress towards reaching your goals. Some of our clients prefer to continue a therapeutic relationship for check-in support after initial goals are met. We find this beneficial and similar to best practices of taking your car in to the shop every now and then for an oil change or tune up. Why not do that for yourself and your relationships as well? You will typically know when you have reached a point where you feel you no longer need to come. We are very transparent with clients about discussing this and checking in with you to make sure you feel our work is on track with the goals you have established.

To cancel or reschedule a therapy appointment, follow these general steps: 

1. Contact the Therapist in Advance: 

  • Notify me as soon as you know you need to cancel or reschedule. It’s courteous to provide as  much notice as possible. Remember to contact me within 24-48 hours to your appointment.


2. Use Preferred Communication Method: 

  • Reach out to me through email, phone (text), or your secure messaging client portal. 


3. Ask About Rescheduling: 

  • If you need to reschedule, inquire about available alternative appointment times. Discuss options  that work for both you and me. 


4. Reschedule as Soon as Possible: 

  • If you had to cancel, try to reschedule your appointment as soon as possible to maintain the  continuity of your therapeutic process. 

 

Life events can sometimes interfere with scheduled appointments, and we appreciate clients who communicate  proactively about any adjustments needed. 

We Are Currently Accepting New Clients. If you’re looking for help finding resolution or healing after a difficult  period in your life – or if you just want to improve your mental health overall – then please contact us today. • All Appointments Are Online/Virtual only. 

  • Email: info@summitofpeacecounseling.com. 
  • Phone: (325) 252-7348. 

To contact your therapist or counselor, follow these general steps: 

1. Use Preferred Communication Method: 

  • Contact me by phone, email, text, or through the secure messaging platform if your client profile.

 

2. Call or Leave a Voicemail:

  • If your therapist has provided a phone number, call them directly. If they are unavailable, leave a  voicemail with your name, a callback number, and a brief message regarding the purpose of your  call. 

 

3. Send an Email: 

  • If your therapist has provided an email address, you can send them an email. Be concise in your  message, include your name, and clearly state the reason for your communication. 

 

4. Use Secure Messaging Systems (if applicable): 

  • Some therapists use secure messaging systems or client portals for communication. If your  therapist has such a system, log in and send a message according to the platform’s instructions.

 

5. For Emergencies: 

  • This is neither a crisis center nor is there after-office hours for consultation or assistance. For  physical, medical, or life threatening emergencies, please call 911 or the Suicide and Crisis  Lifeline (988) for assistance. 

Here are the options: 

  1. Send us an email at: info@summitofpeacecounseling.com. 
  2. Call or text our office at (325) 252-7348. 
  3. Submit a private message using our online platform: https://summitofpeacecounseling.com/contact-us/. 

Deciding whether to attend therapy or counseling is a personal choice, and it’s common for individuals within a  family or relationship to have different perspectives on the matter. Here are some considerations if your kid, partner,  or spouse doesn’t think therapy is needed: 

  1. Communication: 
  • Openly communicate with your kid, partner, or spouse about your thoughts and feelings regarding  therapy. Share your perspective on why you believe it could be beneficial and encourage them to  express their concerns.
  1. Express Your Needs: 
  • Share your reasons for considering therapy and things you hope to achieve via the process.  Discussing your own motivations can help others understand your perspective. 
  1. Seek a Compromise: 
  • It is helpful to consider potential compromises. For example, you might suggest attending a few  sessions together to see how it goes, with the option to reassess later. This approach allows for a  gradual and collaborative approach to therapy. 
  1. Individual vs. Couples/Family Therapy: 
  • If there is reluctance to attend therapy as a group, consider starting with individual therapy for  yourself or encouraging your kid, partner, or spouse to pursue individual sessions. Sometimes,  individual progress can positively impact the overall dynamic. 
 

Here are additional reasons why your kid, partner, or spouse may choose to attend therapy sessions:

a. Self-Discovery and Personal Growth: 

  • Therapy provides a supportive environment for self-exploration and personal development.  Individuals can gain insight into their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, fostering a deeper  understanding of themselves and their life goals. 

b. Coping with Life Transitions: 

  • Life transitions, such as job changes, relocation, divorce, or loss, can be challenging to navigate.  Therapy offers a space to process these transitions, manage associated stress, and develop coping  strategies for adapting to change. 

c. Improving Relationships: 

  • Therapy can be beneficial for individuals seeking to enhance their relationships, whether with  partners, family members, or friends. It provides a platform to address communication issues,  conflict resolution, and interpersonal dynamics. 

d. Managing Stress and Anxiety: 

  • Therapy is a valuable resource for individuals dealing with stress, anxiety, or overwhelming  emotions. Therapists can teach coping skills, relaxation techniques, and stress management  strategies to improve mental well-being. 

e. Building Self-Esteem and Confidence: 

  • Low self-esteem and a lack of confidence can impact various aspects of life. Therapy helps  individuals explore and challenge negative self-perceptions, fostering a more positive and  empowered sense of self. 

f. Navigating Grief and Loss: 

  • The loss of a loved one, whether through death, divorce, or separation, can be a profound and  challenging experience. Therapy provides a compassionate space to grieve, process emotions, and  find ways to cope with loss. 

g. Managing Mental Health Conditions: 

  • Individuals facing mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety disorders, or trauma, can  benefit from therapy as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. Therapists work collaboratively  with clients to address symptoms and improve overall mental health. 

We charge a fee for missed session and late-cancellation except for medical emergency situations.

FAQ

Insurance

Choosing between private pay and using insurance involves weighing various personal preferences, family situation, and extenuating circumstances. Potential benefits of private pay over using insurance for therapy include:

  1. Confidentiality: When you pay privately, your therapy records are not submitted to insurance companies.  This can enhance privacy and confidentiality, as insurance companies may require certain information for  coverage. 
  2. Choice of Therapist: Private pay allows you greater flexibility in choosing a therapist. Some therapists  may not accept certain insurance plans, and with private pay, you have the freedom to select a therapist  based on personal preferences, expertise, and compatibility. 
  3. Session Frequency and Duration: Using insurance plans can sometimes have limitations on the number  of sessions covered. Private pay can offer more flexibility in terms of the frequency and duration of therapy  sessions.
  1. Avoiding Diagnosis Requirements: Insurance companies often may require a mental health diagnosis for  coverage. Some individuals prefer not to have a formal diagnosis on their record, and private pay allows  them to receive therapy without the necessity of a diagnostic label. 
  2. Streamlined Process: Private pay can simplify the billing process for both the therapist and the client.  There are no insurance claims to file, and payments are typically made directly between the client and the  therapist. 
  3. Access to Out-of-Network Providers: If you choose a therapist who is out-of-network with your  insurance, private pay may be a more straightforward option. While insurance may still cover a portion of  out-of-network costs, private pay eliminates the complexities associated with submitting claims and waiting  for reimbursement. 

 

It’s important to note that using insurance for therapy has its own advantages, such as reduced out-of-pocket costs.  Ultimately, the decision between private pay and insurance depends on your individual preferences, financial  situation, and specific details about your therapy needs. 

Yes, you can absolutely seek therapy without using insurance. I offer self-pay options for individuals who prefer not  to use insurance or do not have insurance coverage. Here are some ways to access therapy without insurance:

  1. Private Pay: 
  • You can pay for therapy sessions out-of-pocket without involving insurance. This often gives you  more flexibility and control over your sessions. 
  1. Sliding Scale Fees: 
  • I offer sliding scale fees based on income, allowing you to pay a reduced rate that aligns with your  financial situation. 
  1. Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs): 
  • If you are employed, check if your workplace offers an Employee Assistance Program (EAP).  EAPs often provide short-term counseling services at no cost to employees. 

 

When reaching out inquire about payment options and whether I offer self-pay or sliding scale options. Discussing  fees and payment arrangements is a normal part of the initial consultation process. I am willing to work with clients  to make mental health care more accessible. 

No. In most countries, therapists do not have the authority to prescribe medication. Prescribing medication is typically within the scope of practice of licensed medical professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, and medical doctors. If you and I determine that medication may be a beneficial part of your treatment plan, I will refer you to a psychiatrist or another medical professional who can conduct a comprehensive evaluation and prescribe medication if deemed necessary.

Billing processes for therapy services can vary. Here are ways in which services may be billed to insurance:

  1. In-Network Providers: 
  • If I am in in-network provider with your insurance plan, the insurance company will be billed for  covered services. You may be responsible for copayments, deductibles, or other out-of-pocket  expenses as specified by your insurance plan. 
  1. Out-of-Network Providers: 
  • If I am in out-of-network provider, you may pay the full session fee at the time of service.  Afterward, you can submit a claim to your insurance company for reimbursement. The insurance  company will then process the claim based on your out-of-network benefits. 

To determine what therapy costs your insurance covers, it’s important to contact your insurance provider directly.  Here are steps you can take to gather information about your mental health coverage: 

  1. Check Your Insurance Plan Documents: 
  • Review your insurance plan documents, including the policy handbook or summary of benefits.  This information typically outlines mental health coverage, copayments, deductibles, and any  limitations on the number of sessions covered. 
  1. Contact Your Insurance Provider: 
  • Call the customer service number on the back of your insurance card to speak with a  representative. Ask specific questions about mental health coverage, including coverage for  therapy or counseling services. 
  1. Ask About In-Network and Out-of-Network Coverage:
  • Inquire about whether your therapist is considered an in-network or out-of-network provider. In network providers often have lower out-of-pocket costs for members. 
  1. Understand Copayments and Deductibles: 
  • Clarify the amount of copay or coinsurance you are responsible for per therapy session. Also, ask  about any deductibles that need to be met before insurance coverage kicks in. 
  1. Verify Coverage Duration: 
  • Check whether there are any limitations on the number of therapy sessions covered within a  specific time frame. Some plans may have session limits. 
  1. Understand Confidentiality Concerns: 
  • While discussing coverage with your insurance provider, be aware that they may require  information about the nature of your treatment. Consider discussing confidentiality concerns with  the insurance representative. 

 

Always communicate openly with your therapist about your insurance coverage and financial option(s). You are responsible for having a clear understanding of your insurance benefits and making informed decisions about your  mental health care. 

Currently, it is Optum, Cigna and United Health Care (UHC). Remember that I may update my insurance network affiliations, please verify this information directly with my office. Additionally, confirm coverage details, such as  copayments, deductibles, and any limitations on the number of sessions covered under your insurance plan. 

FAQ

How Mental Health Therapy & Counseling Works

The involvement of parents in a teenager’s therapy sessions depends on several factors, including the therapist’s  approach, the laws and regulations, and the specific circumstances. Here are some common scenarios:

1. Confidentiality for Minors: 

  • In certain cases, I prioritize confidentiality for minors to create a safe and trusting space. It means  that the content of sessions is generally kept confidential between the therapist and the teenager.

2. Parental Involvement: 

  • While I may encourage open communication and collaboration with parents, the extent of parental  involvement depends on the teenager’s age, maturity, and the nature of the issues being addressed.

3. Informed Consent: 

  • I typically discuss confidentiality and parental involvement during the informed consent process  with both the teenager and the parents. It is an opportunity to clarify boundaries and expectations.

4. Risk of Harm: 

  • Therapists will breach confidentiality if there is a credible and imminent risk of harm to the  teenager or others. In such cases, they have a legal and ethical duty to involve parents or  appropriate authorities. 

5. Parental Request: 

  • If the parents express any concerns or request involvement in their teenager’s therapy, I might  consider the request and assess whether it is in the best interest of the minor. 

 

It’s important for parents, teenagers, and therapists to communicate openly about expectations and boundaries. Clear  communication helps build trust and ensures that everyone involved understands how information will be handled. If you have specific questions or concerns about your teenager’s therapy sessions, I recommended that you discuss  them directly with me. I can provide more information about my approach as well as how I handle confidentiality  and parental involvement/consent. 

A standard therapy session is 50 minutes to an hour. This timeframe allows for a meaningful and focused conversation while still providing time for reflection and exploration of emotions and thoughts. Please inquire from the therapist for 90 minutes sessions available for premarital counseling.

FAQ

General Information

Counseling and therapy are for individuals who are seeking support, guidance, and assistance in addressing various  challenges, improving mental health, and enhancing overall well-being. It is for a diverse range of people facing  different issues. Here are some common reasons people seek counseling and therapy: 

 

  1. Mental Health Concerns: Individuals experiencing conditions such as depression, anxiety, stress, or other  mental health disorders often seek therapy to manage symptoms and improve their mental well-being.
  2. Relationship Issues: Couples or individuals facing challenges in relationships, whether romantic, familial,  or social, may seek therapy to improve communication, resolve conflicts, or navigate transitions.
  3. Life Transitions: People going through significant life changes, such as career transitions, loss, divorce, or  major life decisions, may benefit from therapy to cope with the emotional impact and navigate the changes.
  4. Personal Growth: Some individuals pursue therapy as a means of self-discovery and personal  development. It provides a space to explore goals, values, and enhance overall life satisfaction.
  5. Trauma and PTSD: Those who have experienced trauma or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can  find therapy helpful in processing and healing from traumatic experiences. 
  6. Addiction and Substance Abuse: Individuals struggling with addiction or substance abuse issues often  turn to therapy for support and strategies to overcome these challenges. 
  7. Stress Management: Therapy can be beneficial for individuals dealing with stress, burnout, or  overwhelming life pressures, providing coping mechanisms and stress management techniques.
  8. Self-Esteem and Identity Issues: People grappling with self-esteem issues, identity concerns, or a lack of  self-confidence may seek therapy to explore and address these aspects. 
  9. Grief and Loss: Therapy is commonly utilized by individuals coping with grief and loss, offering a  supportive space to process emotions and navigate the grieving process. 
  10. Behavioral Challenges: Parents may seek therapy for their children to address behavioral challenges or  developmental concerns. 
  11. Parenting Challenges: Parents may seek therapy to navigate parenting difficulties, address conflicts with  children, or receive guidance on effective parenting strategies. 
  12. Chronic Illness or Disability: Individuals coping with chronic illness or disability may turn to therapy for  emotional support, coping strategies, and assistance in adjusting to life changes. 
  13. Eating Disorders: People struggling with eating disorders, such as anorexia or bulimia, often seek therapy  for specialized treatment and support in overcoming these challenges. 
  14. Workplace Issues: Individuals facing workplace stress, conflicts, or challenges may seek therapy to  develop coping skills, improve work-life balance, or address issues affecting professional well-being.
  15. Anger Management: Those dealing with anger issues or difficulties managing intense emotions may  benefit from therapy to learn constructive ways of expressing and coping with anger. 
  16. Sleep Disorders: Individuals with sleep-related issues, such as insomnia or nightmares, may seek therapy  to explore underlying causes and develop strategies for improving sleep quality. 
  17. Phobias and Anxiety Disorders: People dealing with specific phobias or various anxiety disorders can  find therapy helpful in managing and overcoming these conditions.
  18. Cultural Adjustment: Individuals navigating cultural transitions or experiencing challenges related to  cultural identity may seek therapy for support and understanding. 
  19. Preventative Mental Health: Some individuals engage in therapy as a proactive measure to maintain good  mental health, prevent potential issues, and enhance overall resilience and well-being. 

 

This list is not exhaustive. Therapy is a versatile resource to address a broad range of individual needs/situations.  People seek therapy for various reasons. Its benefits extend to aspects of one’s life. Thus, counseling is an inclusive  service catering to a wide range of individuals with diverse life conditions. It’s a resource for those that recognize the  value of professional support in navigating life’s challenges and promoting mental and emotional well-being. 

You need an internet-connected electronic device like a computer, phone, or tablet with a microphone and video access to meet with your counselor. You should have a good internet speed to support video calls. You should have a computer with Windows 10 or later version or IOS 10.4 or newer or Android 10 or later with the latest version of Chrome/Edge /Firefox browser. Most importantly, find a safe space to have an uninterrupted and private session.

In general, therapy sessions are typically scheduled on a weekly basis. However, the frequency may be adjusted based on the nature and severity of the issues being addressed. The number of sessions required varies and is influenced by factors such as the complexity of the issues, personal goals, and progress made in therapy. We can discuss and mutually decide on frequency and duration of sessions based on need. Some clients may benefit from short-term therapy, while others may engage in longer-term therapy or occasional check-ins. It’s important to communicate openly about your goals, progress, and any concerns you may have about the frequency and duration of sessions. It can help ensure that the therapy process aligns with your needs and expectations.

If you are in crisis and need immediate help, it’s important to reach out to appropriate resources. Here are some steps  you can take:

  1. Emergency Services: If you are in immediate danger or experiencing a crisis, call your local emergency  number. For instance, if in the United States call 911. 
  2. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: formerly known as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, by  calling or texting 988, you’ll connect with mental health professionals You can also call 1-800-273-TALK  (1-800-273-8255).
  3. Hospital Emergency Room: If in imminent danger or experiencing a mental health crisis, go to the nearest hospital emergency room. They can provide urgent assistance and connect you with appropriate resources.

Teletherapy (remote/online) and in-person therapy have advantages and considerations. Choosing between them  depends on individual preferences, accessibility, and the specific situation. Here are factors to consider for each:

Teletherapy: 

  1. Convenience: Teletherapy allows you to attend sessions from the comfort of your home, saving time and  travel expenses. 
  2. Accessibility: It provides access to mental health services for individuals who may have difficulty  accessing in-person care due to location, mobility issues, or other barriers. 
  3. Flexibility: Teletherapy may offer more flexible scheduling options, making it easier to fit sessions into a  busy lifestyle. 
  4. Anonymity: Some individuals feel more comfortable discussing personal issues from the privacy of their  own space. 
  5. Pandemic Considerations: Teletherapy became more prevalent during the COVID-19 pandemic, and it  continues to be a preferred option for many during public health concerns. 

 

In-Person Therapy: 

  1. Face-to-Face Interaction: In-person therapy provides direct face-to-face interaction, allowing therapists to  pick up on non-verbal cues and create a more immediate connection. 
  2. Structured Environment: Some people find the structure of attending a physical therapy office more  beneficial for their mental health. 
  3. Limited Technical Issues: In-person sessions are not dependent on internet connectivity or technology,  reducing the risk of technical issues during a session. 
  4. Therapeutic Environment: Therapists often create a therapeutic environment in their offices, which can  contribute to a sense of safety and containment. 
  5. Traditional Approach: For some, the traditional approach of meeting in person aligns more with their  comfort and therapeutic preferences. 

 

Ultimately, the choice between teletherapy and in-person care depends on your individual needs, preferences, and  circumstances. Some people may prefer the convenience of teletherapy, while others may value the in-person  connection. 

Are answers to your questions not listed above and still have other questions to ask?

Kindly email us at info@summitofpeacecounseling.com.

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