What should I expect as a new client?
You can contact me by phone or e-mail, and I will contact you to start a discussion as to whether we might be a match. This may include a 10-minute phone conversation, so you can have your questions answered directly and also share your interests.
If you decide to schedule a session, I will e-mail you a link, with some basic forms. These can be completed electronically. In this paperwork will be included the instructions for signing on to telehealth, and directions to the office. Everyone has the option of either telehealth, in-person treatment, or a combination.
We will meet for an initial session, in which you will begin on your therapy journey. After this, sessions typically continue weekly, but this is discussed together.
I’m nervous to start therapy. Is that normal?
Absolutely! Everything can be explained, all questions are welcomed, and we don’t have to solve everything at once. It may feel strange but generally starts to feel comfortable even as the first session progresses, and on from there.
Do you prescribe medications?
I do not, however there are others in the community who do. Our focus is on talking and change through therapy.
Do you take insurance?
Yes, for most insurances. I am an in-network provider for Blue Cross, Medicare, United, Harvard Pilgrim, Tricare, Tufts, AARP, and Aetna. You can call your insurance company, at the “Member Services” number on your insurance card, to find out what your costs would be. These would include any copays or deductibles, and these would be your responsibility, but, insurance, most of the time, pays for the majority of the costs. Member Services can update you as to specifics.
If you have a Health Savings Account (HSA), or Flexible Spending Account (FSA), these likely will be able to be used toward your costs, by using the card you’ve been given for that, from your employer. In addition, in general, you can pay by credit card remotely and smoothly, or by Venmo.
Anyone choosing to use insurance for psychotherapy, in any form, should be aware that all insurance companies require the therapist to provide a psychiatric diagnosis which will enter your medical record. Without a psychiatric diagnosis, insurance companies will not reimburse for psychotherapy services. If you do not wish to go through insurance for this or other reasons, that is possible, too.
What are the fees for therapy that is pursued outside of these insurances?
Ongoing Individual Sessions, 50 minutes: $150
Initial Session, 55 minutes: $180
What methods of payment can I use?
Cash, Check, Visa, Mastercard, Discover, Venmo
Jasmine Appleberry, LICSW Psychotherapist 