What is counseling?
Counseling is a professional relationship between a trained counselor and the client (person in need of services). Although some call it "the talking cure", in reality this relationship takes a lot more than just talking. Trust and mutual commitment between both parties allow the client to open up and share his/her concerns. Genuine care, experience and knowledge allow the counselor to properly engage and respond to those concerns.
How does counseling work?
After the first phone call, the counselor and the client must meet and agree on what are the needs to be addressed, how they will be addressed and how many sessions the process would take. In most cases, and after a thorough assessment, people meet for about 45 to 50 minutes, as regularly as possible (once a week seems to work best for most people). The number of sessions are determined right after the first session, knowing that the original plan may change based on progress.
How long would treatment take?
Because every person is unique and has unique needs, it is very difficult to predict how many sessions the treatment may take. We do not believe in a "coockie-cutter" way of treating people. Not everyone responds the same way to treatment. However, a possible number of sessions will be discussed at the end of the first, consultation session. We had a few clients that met their goals in as little as 5 to 6 sessions, also others, who achieved their goals in 12 to 15 sessions, and still a few others, who required lengthier treatments. Our commitment is to serve you well by tailoring a treatment that meets your needs as soon as possible.
How much is it going to cost?
Our fees range from $75.00 to $175.00 per session. The specific fee that would apply to you will depend on the type of treatment you would need and the particular counselor you will work with. Sue Solano offers a sliding scale for college students. Some of our counselors also accept AETNA, Cigna, Oscar, United Healthcare and Oxford Insurance reimbursement.
would i need medication?
Even though counselors are knowledgeable in regards to medications, only some professionals in the medical field (MD's, RN's) are allowed to assess for and prescribe psychotropic medications. Although most counseling clients do not need medications to deal with their counseling concerns, some do, and should seek services from the proper professional. If you are in need of medication, your professional counselor will coordinate services with the prescribing physician so you benefit the most from this process.
can i use my medical insurance?
Our counselors accept AETNA, Cigna, Oscar, United Healthcare and Oxford Insurance reimbursement.
If you are planning to use your medical insurance, we strongly recommend to consider the following points:
Most private insurance companies recognize two types of coverage, "in-network" and "out-of-network." Our practice would be considered "in-network" for AETNA, Cigna, Oscar, United Healthcare and Oxford, all other insurance companies will consider us "out-of-network".
If our counselor is "in-network" with your insurance company, find out your co-pay and if there is any unmet deductible you will need to complete before they start paying for your services. If you decide to take this route, keep in mind that they may determine who your counselor should be, how many sessions you should have or even the treatment modality to use, limiting in that way, the freedom of what we may think the best possible treatment should be and the length of it. Still we understand that financial difficulties may force you to use your "in-network" insurance benefits, our promise is, that we will do our best to fit your needs and resources.
When using "out-of-network" benefits, ask your insurance company what percentage of your paid fees they will cover. We will provide you with the proper documentation so you can submit it directly and get reimbursed according to their policy. Just make sure to ask what is their coverage for "out-of-network" providers.
What if I do not have insurance or decide not to use it?
You may pay "out-of-pocket" for your services. Our practice accepts cash, checks and all major credit cards. Our fees range from $75.00 to $175.00 per session. The details of your fees will be discussed directly with the counselor you may choose to work with.
Do you speak spanish?
Si, nuestros tres consejeros, la Dra. Panting, Dr. Sierra y el Sr. Gonzalez proveen servicios en español.