Frequently Asked Questions

What is counseling or psychotherapy?

Counseling and psychotherapy (also called outpatient therapy or simply ‘therapy’) are often used interchangeably nowadays, which can lead to some confusion. Traditionally, counseling is more of an advice-oriented practice while psychotherapy is an in-depth process of emotional healing and growth. I tend to stay away from advice-giving in my practice, as I prefer to empower my clients to make their own choices. However, some extreme circumstances do call for advice-giving. Some people feel more comfortable with one term over the other, and I am happy to call it by the name you prefer.

What is online counseling

Online counseling is just like in-person therapy, but instead of meeting in a therapy office, you will talk with your counselor through video chat. Our video chat is like chatting with your therapist on FaceTime, but is secure and confidential.

You can use your cell phone, tablet, or computer. Our video chats are encrypted, secure, and fully compliant with all federal privacy regulations (HIPPA).

Online counseling can be just as successful as in-person therapy. Research shows online counseling to be effective for many mental health issues.

What is the first session like?

When you’re ready for your first session, contact me and I can usually schedule a new appointment within 3-5 days. I’m available daytime and evenings.  I offer in-person and online appointments.

My goal for our first session is to get to know you. We will go through an assessment where I will ask you some basic questions to help me understand what you’d like to work on. You can provide me with as much information as you feel comfortable with, although I encourage you to dive right in, as it will help us create a treatment plan and get to work on your goals.

I understand the first session can be very anxiety-provoking, or that you may not be ready to discuss certain things until we know each other better.

Before we meet, I will ask you to fill out a standard intake packet (if you’d like, I can email you the packet ahead of time). Please bring your insurance card and a method of payment, if applicable.

What are the fees/how much does it cost?

There are a few ways to pay for counseling or psychotherapy. The most common are with insurance / Employee Assistance Plan (EAP) and out of pocket.

Insurance / Employee Assistance Plan (EAP)

Many people have mental health benefits through their health insurance, which may cover all or part of your fees for counseling and psychotherapy. Check with your insurance provider to find out your mental health benefits coverage. Be sure to ask about deductibles, co-pays and co-insurance.

I accept the following insurance plans:

If you don’t see your insurance or EAP listed above, feel free to ask about coverage.

How much will counseling cost if I don’t have insurance?

Out-of-pocket (Self-pay)

You may pay for counseling sessions out-of-pocket by check, cash or credit card. This option may appeal to you if you prefer not to use your insurance due to privacy concerns. You may also choose this method if your insurance company limits the number of sessions and the types of issues that will be covered.

Don’t want to use insurance?

Self pay with a credit card is also available.

My self-pay rates/costs are as follows:

• Introductory diagnostic assessment: $160.00 (first appointment)
• 60 minute therapy session: $140.00
• 45 minute therapy session: $100.00

Alternative payment options are available on request.

Does my insurance cover online counseling?

Yes, insurance does cover online therapy with Virginia Counseling. Your coverage will be the same as it would for an in-person session in most cases.  And you just pay your copay or deductible.

Also, many employers offer an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) that includes therapy sessions.  If you qualify for therapy sessions with your EAP, they are usually fully covered by the EAP and are no cost for you.

We always recommend that you familiarize yourself with your insurance benefits before you see a provider, as providers cannot guarantee benefits.

How do I pay my copay or deductible?

When you sign up for therapy with Virginia Counseling, you will be asked to provide a valid credit card to be kept on file. This is the card we will use to remotely collect your copay after your session.

If you would like to update your card information, or you do not have a current card on file, we ask that you add one before your appointment using our secure client portal.

What if I miss my appointment, or have to cancel?

We ask that you give at least 24 hours notice if you need to reschedule or cancel your appointment. Short-notice cancellations often mean that other people miss out on an opportunity to be seen.

If you miss your appointment without 24 hours notice, there is a $60 missed appointment fee.

Is what I tell you confidential?

Yes, counseling and psychotherapy are strictly confidential. This is one of the most important parts of the process. Successful counseling requires trust — what you say in my office does not leave my office.

Sometimes, you may want me to share information or update someone on your healthcare team (ie, your physician, or an emergency contant/family member), but by law I cannot release this information without your written permission.

**However, Virginia law and professional ethics require mental health workers to maintain confidentiality, except for the following situations:

• Suspected abuse or neglect of a child or elderly person
• Reason to suspect your or someone else is in imminent danger of harm or death

Where is a good place to be during my online session?

We recommend a comfortable, quiet, and private place with good access to WiFi. You are welcome to play some background sound or music on a low volume to act as white noise during the session. You may also consider placing an outward-facing speaker or sound generator on the other side of a closed door.

If you don’t have access to private place to relax in during your session, contact your counselor. We will help figure something out.

Technology

What technology do I need for online counseling?

You will need:

• A computer, tablet, or cell phone with a camera and microphone
• A good internet connection. WiFi is best, because streaming video can use a lot of data.
• The latest version of Chrome, Firefox, or Safari.
• If you chose to hold your session using a smartphone, you may have to download a free Google app called “Meet.”

Note: Most insurance companies require “synchronous” audio and video during your session, which means a video chat in real-time, as opposed to a phone call. 

Note: If your device is older, the video quality may be lower.

How does online counseling video chat work?

1. When your session is scheduled to begin, your counselor will email you a link.
2. Click the link, and the video chat feed will open in your default web browser on your device. You will be taken to a private “waiting room”
   If you are using your cell phone, the link may direct you to install a google app called “Meet”. The first time you use this app, it may ask permission to use your camera and microphone. Once you give permission, you will see your video feed.
3. Click “Join Now” and your counselor will start the video chat with you.
4. When the session is over, simply close the browser or app.

Medication

Do you prescribe medication?

I do not prescribe medication. In the State of Virginia, only medical doctors and some nurse practitioners can prescribe medication. I do, however, provide referrals to medical doctors when relevant.