FAQ's

How long are sessions?
Sessions typically last 45/50 minutes.  

How often will we meet?
Sessions take place weekly.  The weekly frame is necessary for building our relationship and keeping the momentum going so you can get the most out of therapy. Therapy works best when this weekly format is held as consistently as possible.   

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What to expect in therapy.​
Change is an incremental process that takes time. Change happens over time. Therapy requires a commitment to change and honesty. It is a safe place where you can explore your fears and fantasies, address unwanted issues, and grow to your fullest potential.

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What is your cancellation policy?
If you need to cancel an appointment, I request 24 hours notice. Cancellation within 24 hours of the appointment time will be subject to the full session fee.

Do you take insurance?
I do accept some insurances. Just know that when using your insurance most carriers require that you have a mental disorder diagnosis to qualify for coverage. This diagnosis will become part of your medical record. There is no assurance that your provider will keep this information confidential. If I am not In-Network with your insurance, depending on your insurance policy, I can provide you with a "Superbill" (or invoice) that you can submit to your insurance company for reimbursement.  I provide Superbills on a monthly basis.

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Policies

For your convenience you will have access to a client portal to complete intake forms, coordinate appointments and send highly secured messages, and become acquainted with my Practice Policies.

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Cancellation Policy

To avoid being charged for missed appointments please cancel with a minimum of 24-hours in advance. You may do it by calling/texting (818) 465-8424.

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Fees

Individuals: $180 per session. 
Couples and Families: $220 per session. 

Payments are made at the end of each session by credit card via the secure, HIPAA compliant credit card app, Ivy Pay.  I can also provide a monthly invoice ("Superbill") that you can submit to your insurance company for reimbursement.

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Payment

Payment is due at the end of each session.
At this time, payment is only accepted with debit/credit card, including HSA, FSA.

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Insurances

I am in network with Optum, UMR Sutterselect, United Health Care, United Behavioral Health,  Aetna, Evernorth, and Cigna. Please refer to your plan for your particular benefits and financial responsibilities. 
For all other insurances, I will provide you with a "Superbill" that you can submit to your insurance to seek reimbursement. Please note, it is recommended you call your insurance company in advance to inquire about reimbursement and coverage when working with an out-of-network provider.

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Here are some questions you may want to ask to your insurance carrier:

• What are my mental health benefits?

• How many therapy sessions does my plan cover?

• What is the coverage amount per therapy session?

• Am I responsible for any co-payment? What is the amount per session?

• How much does my insurance pay for an out-of-network provider?

• Is approval required from my primary care physician for mental health services?

• Where should I submit my claim for reimbursement? Are there any forms I must submit along with my claim?

• Is there a separate deductible for going Out-of-network?

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Health Savings Accounts (HSA) & Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA):
These accounts allow you to set money aside tax-free to use for medical expenses. In most cases, these funds can be used to pay for counseling, although the final decision is made by your plan administrator. If you have a credit card linked to your HSA or FSA, your account can be charged directly. If not I will provide a statement for reimbursement.

How long will treatment last?
It depends on what you want to work on and what brings you to therapy. If you are dealing with a particularly stressful time and need to find a way to cope, you may meet your goals within 3 to 6 months. If you are looking to work on deeper or chronic issues, treatment may be lengthier.  The end of treatment is determined by you.

What goes on in a psychotherapy session?
For most adults, sessions involve talking. Sometimes you may come with a specific idea of what you want to discuss. Other times, you may not come prepared and allow yourself to discuss what comes to mind. Often the spontaneous unfiltered thoughts and feelings reveal the unknown and important information about yourself. Each session progresses based upon what your needs are at that time.  

Is what we talk about private?
Privacy is a very important part of therapy and the utmost care goes into maintaining your privacy. There may be situations where you want me to share specific information to your physician, lawyer, social worker, etc. In these cases, I legally cannot release any information without getting your written permission.  Additionally, there are a few situations that require that I break confidentiality:    
   - If I suspect you may be a danger to yourself or others.
   - If I suspect and need to report child, dependent adult or elder abuse.

Will I have to talk about things I don’t want to go into?
I won't force you to discuss anything. That being said, treatment is most effective when difficult topics are discussed and understood.  This is why it is important to build trust with your therapist. When this is in place, you can address things as you feel ready.

 Do people go to therapy more than once a week?
Yes. Many times a single session per week can limit individuals to recounting the events of the week rather than addressing the issues for the full session. Multiple sessions per week allow you to get deeper into the areas that need to be understood and explored. Also, people in crisis or deeply distressed by a particular issue may come in for 2-3 sessions per week to intensively focus on an issue.

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Any other questions?

Please feel free to contact me at chanonomft@gmail.com 

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