What is counseling?
Counseling is a professional relationship between a trained counselor and the client (person in need of services). Although some call it "the talking cure", in reality, this relationship takes a lot more than just talking. Trust and mutual commitment between both parties allow the client to open up and share his/her concerns. Genuine care, experience, and knowledge allow the counselor to properly engage and respond to those concerns.
How does counseling work?
After the initial phone call, the counselor and the client must meet and agree on what needs to be addressed, how it will be addressed, and how many sessions the process will require. In most cases, and after a thorough assessment, people meet for about 45 to 50 minutes, as regularly as possible (once a week seems to work best for most people). The number of sessions are determined right after the first session, knowing that the original plan may change based on progress.
How long would treatment take?
Because every person is unique and has distinct needs, it is challenging to predict the number of sessions required for treatment. We do not believe in a "cookie-cutter" way of treating people. Not everyone responds to treatment in the same way. However, the number of sessions will be discussed at the end of the first consultation session. We had a few clients who met their goals in as few as 5 to 6 sessions, while others achieved their goals in 12 to 15 sessions. A few clients required lengthier treatments. Our commitment is to serve you well by tailoring a treatment that meets your needs as soon as possible.
How much will it cost?
Our fees range from $150.00 to $185.00 per session. The specific fee that applies to you will depend on the type of treatment you need and the particular counselor you work with. Some of our counselors also accept reimbursement from Aetna, Cigna, Oscar, UnitedHealthcare, and Oxford Insurance.
Would I need medication?
Even though counselors are knowledgeable regarding medications, only some professionals in the medical field (MDs, RN's) are allowed to assess for and prescribe psychotropic medications. Although most counseling clients do not require medications to address their counseling concerns, some do, and should seek services from a qualified professional. If you are in need of medication, your professional counselor will coordinate services with the prescribing physician so you benefit the most from this process.
Can I use my medical insurance?
Our counselors accept Aetna, Cigna, Oscar, UnitedHealthcare, and Oxford Insurance reimbursement.
If you are planning to use your medical insurance, we strongly recommend considering the following points:
Most private insurance companies recognize two types of coverage, "in-network" and "out-of-network." Our practice is considered "in-network" for Aetna, Cigna, Oscar, UnitedHealthcare, and Oxford; all other insurance companies will consider us "out-of-network."
If our counselor is "in-network" with your insurance company, find out your co-pay, and if there is any unmet deductible you will need to complete before they start paying for your services. If you decide to take this route, keep in mind that they may determine who your counselor should be, how many sessions you should have, or even the treatment modality to use, limiting in that way, the freedom of what we may think the best possible treatment should be and the length of it. Still we understand that financial difficulties may force you to use your "in-network" insurance benefits, our promise is, that we will do our best to fit your needs and resources.
When using "out-of-network" benefits, ask your insurance company what percentage of your paid fees they will cover. We will provide you with the proper documentation so you can submit it directly and get reimbursed according to their policy. Just make sure to ask what their coverage is for "out-of-network" providers.
What if I do not have insurance or decide not to use it?
You may pay "out-of-pocket" for your services. Our practice accepts cash, checks, and all major credit cards. Our fees range from $75.00 to $175.00 per session. The details of your fees will be discussed directly with the counselor you may choose to work with.
Do you speak Spanish?
Si, nuestros dos consejeros bilingües, la Dra. Panting, y el Dr. Sierra proveen servicios en español.