Answers To Some Frequently Asked Questions
What forms will I need to complete as a new client?
You will be provided with several forms, including the Informed Consent for Counseling Services, Notice of Privacy Practices, Practice Policies, and Demographic/Contact Information. These are similar to the patient consents and notices you sign at any licensed provider’s office. For convenience and efficiency, these are sent to you through an email link to your confidential Client Portal on the Simple Practice website, an electronic record keeping system. You can review the forms, sign and return them electronically, or print them off at home and bring them to your first session.
What will happen in my first counseling session?
The primary purpose of your first session is to discuss and clarify your goals for improving the areas of your life you are seeking help with, along with understanding aspects of your personal history that are relevant to your goals. For career counseling we will review your employment history, education and skills, along with what vocational activities give you a sense of meaning, purpose, and contentment. For individual counseling we will review the mental/emotional symptoms you are dealing with, your personal and family histories including the impact of trauma or health conditions, and past efforts to get help. For relationship counseling we will review the types of difficulties you and your significant other(s) are experiencing along with major themes and patterns from your shared history. From the content of these initial conversations we will map out goals for future sessions, provide assessment tools such as Myers-Briggs temperament survey, reading materials, and other homework projects.
Can I use my health insurance to pay for counseling services at this practice?
Yes you can, under certain conditions. While we are not equipped to accept your insurance plan directly, we can provide you with documentation (a “super-bill” type invoice) that you can submit to your insurance company for reimbursement under your mental health benefits. Insurance will often reimburse for “out-of-network” treatment for a diagnosed mental health condition such as depression, anxiety, or adjustment disorders. Insurance plans seldom cover career counseling, and only a few policies will cover couples, marital, or family therapy when the treatment goal is improving communication, resolving conflict, and enhancing relationships. If obtaining insurance plan reimbursement is important to you, contact your insurance company to find out what types of counseling services and diagnostic codes are covered. For more information about costs, please refer to the Fees section on the menu.
Do you have another question that is not covered on these pages?
Please send your question or suggestions to Robert Castle using the Contact form.
