Payment
I currently accept BlueCross BlueShield, Carefirst and Cigna insurance plans. I encourage all of my potential clients to contact your insurance customer service number or web site prior to scheduling your appointment to verify that I am covered under your specific plan and to inquire as to what co-pay, co-insurance or deductible you may be responsible for.
If you have an insurance plan that I do not accept then I am considered an “out-of-network provider” which means you may be reimbursed by your insurance company at the rate your policy cites. My license with the state of Maryland ensures that insurance companies recognize my credentials and my ability to make diagnoses and provide mental health treatment. Claim forms for insurance companies are easily found on most insurance web sites and can be submitted via mail or fax to your insurance provider. I will provide you with a receipt that contains all of the information necessary to complete your claim.
It is important to keep in mind that there are benefits to not using your insurance to pay for services. Insurance companies require that we provide them with a diagnosis which is documented on your medical record.
*The out-of-pocket rate is $105.00 per 60 minutes.
Confidentiality
I follow all ethical standards prescribed by state and federal law. Discussions with clients are confidential. No information will be released without the client’s written consent unless mandated by law. I am required by practice guidelines and standards of care to keep records of your counseling. These records are confidential with the exceptions mandated by state and federal law, and in the Notice of Privacy Practices provided to you. If you have any questions regarding confidentiality, please bring them to my attention when you and I discuss this matter at your initial session.
Appointments
Appointments are typically scheduled on a weekly basis and are approximately 50 minutes long. More frequent sessions are available if determined appropriate. If you must cancel or reschedule your appointment, I ask that you call me at 240-751-6405 at least 24 hours in advance. This will free your appointment time for another client.
Emergencies
You may encounter a personal emergency which will require prompt attention. In this event, please contact me regarding the nature and urgency of the circumstances. I will make every attempt to schedule you as soon as possible or to offer other options. Because clients may be scheduled back-to-back, it is not always possible to return call immediately. However, I will make every effort to respond to your emergency in a timely manner. If you are experiencing a life-threatening emergency, call 911 or have someone take you to the nearest emergency room for help. When I am out of town, you will be advised and given the name of an on-call therapist. Twenty-four hour crisis helplines in Harford County include the Harford County Mobile Crisis Team (410) 638-5248 and SARC Crisis Hotline (410) 836-8430.