Participating in psychotherapy is an excellent way to learn about the obstacles that block you from feeling fulfilled. You may have some specific issues or problems that you feel prepared to work on, or you may be unsure of how to get started on a path to feeling better. My goal is to help those who are struggling with the stresses or overwhelming problems life can often present, who need hope, support or guidance, as well as those wishing to enter therapy on a journey to deeper self understanding.
Treatment will start with an evaluation of your needs. We will then establish treatment goals designed to address those areas of your life needing change or improvement. Therapy is a collaborative effort between the client and the therapist. An active effort on your part in and outside of the session is vital to the successful achievement of your goals. It is also important that you feel comfortable working with me. You should feel free to raise any questions or concerns you might have. You have the right to discontinue services at any time and to request referrals as needed.
Your right to confidentiality is protected by law. I can only release information about you and our work together to others with your written permission. I may ask that you allow me to communicate with certain individuals to assist in your treatment and to coordinate care, but it is your right whether or not to allow this communication and I must have written permission. There are instances, however, in which your right to confidentiality is limited, including, but not limited to, the following:
-You or someone else appears to be in immediate danger -There is reason to suspect that child abuse or neglect has occurred -A court orders the release of information -An insurance company requires information to substantiate a claim
Insurance companies often require cooperation between the client, the provider and a managed care component of the insurance company. Your insurance company may require detailed information about you and the nature of your problem in order for authorization and payment for treatment to occur. Insurance companies also may inspect client records and treatment plans as part of their quality management process. If you choose to use your insurance benefits to pay for treatment, you are agreeing to the release of confidential information to your insurance company or managed care organization. This release is for the purpose of authorizing services, conducting utilization reviews, obtaining payment, processing my claim, and evaluating treatment quality.
My standard fees are $160 for an initial assessment appointment and $135 or $100 for an individual psychotherapy appointment, depending on the services provided. Payments and insurance co-payments for services are due at the time of your appointment. It is your responsibility to understand your specific insurance contract and fee obligations that are part of your subscriber agreement.
A scheduled appointment is a commitment of time between me and the client. I have reserved the time just for you. When appointments are missed, that time is lost. I ask that when you schedule an appointment, you make every effort to keep that commitment. If you need to cancel an appointment, please call at least 24-hours in advance to cancel the appointment. This allows me to see another client in need of an appointment. The fee for a session cancelled with less than 24-hours notice is $25. There is a $65 fee for all sessions that you do not attend and do not cancel in advance. Your insurance company does not cover these charges.
If you are experiencing a psychiatric emergency outside of normal business hours, you may contact me. Occasionally it is not possible to reach me immediately. If you are unable to reach me during a crisis, you should contact your primary care physician or call one of the following community psychiatric services.
Crisis Services: (716) 834 - 3131 Comprehensive Psychiatric Emergency Program at ECMC (716) 898 - 3465
If you would like to schedule an appointment, please call my office at: (716) 866-4688