FAQs

Chula Vista Counseling

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Standard therapy sessions are 45-60 minutes depending on the client’s needs. During the active phase of therapy, we will meet on a regular, weekly basis. Depending on your circumstances and the nature of your issues or distress, I may recommend more frequent sessions such as twice a week.

  • $175 per session

  • Unfortunately, I unable to offer a sliding scale.

    Sliding scales are typically utilized in non-profit, community outpatient clinics where student therapist trainees or pre-licensed clinicians are gaining their supervised hours of experience. These types of settings typically receive specialized grants from the government to subsidize and offset their costs.

    I reserve a couple of discounted slots for clients who are unable to afford my fee. Please inquire about whether I have a slot open.

  • I am able to bill for Tricare clients as a “participating provider.” Please check with your plan to find out whether a prior authorization is required.

    I am an “out-of-network” provider for all other insurances which means if you have a PPO plan, you may be eligible for partial reimbursement of services (usually between 50-80%; less any deductibles, co-pays or co-insurance).

    Upon payment after each session, I will provide you with a special receipt called a “super bill” that you can submit to your insurance company for reimbursement. I can also assist you in submitting your claim through other avenues if you prefer more assistance.

    I recommend that you check with your insurance company to find out whether you are required to obtain a prior authorization before we begin meeting.

    Here is an article that talks about reasons why you might want to consider working with an out of network provider: 8 Reasons to See an Out of Network Therapist

  • Yep! Many clients find that using their HSA or FSA to pay for therapy is a convenient and beneficial option. These accounts are designed to help you manage and budget for qualified medical expenses, and therapy services often fall into this category.

    Q: How does it work?

    A: Using your HSA or FSA for therapy is a straightforward process. Simply use your HSA or FSA debit card to pay for your sessions, or if your account provides reimbursement, save your receipts and submit a claim for eligible expenses.

    Q: What expenses are eligible for reimbursement?

    A: Generally, therapy services provided by a qualified healthcare professional are considered eligible expenses. However, it's essential to check the specific guidelines of your HSA or FSA, as coverage can vary. You may want to verify with your account provider or your employer's benefits department to ensure therapy is a covered expense.

    Q: Is a mental health diagnosis required for reimbursement?

    A: In most cases, a mental health diagnosis is not required for reimbursement from an HSA or FSA. These accounts typically focus on the nature of the service rather than requiring a formal diagnosis. However, it's advisable to check with your account provider to confirm their specific requirements.

    Q: Can you provide receipts or documentation for reimbursement purposes?

    A: Certainly! I can provide you with the necessary documentation, including receipts and any additional information required by your HSA or FSA provider, to facilitate the reimbursement process. Please let me know if you have specific requirements or if there's anything else you need.

  • Yes! I offer therapy in-person at my office which is located in Eastlake, Chula Vista, just up the street from the Target and Kohl’s shopping centers.

  • Absolutely. Telehealth (online video) appointments are available for anyone who is currently a resident of California. Telehealth appointments are scheduled through my secure client portal. You can easily access your online appointment through any device whether laptop, tablet, or cell phone that has a working camera and microphone. Please let me know if you would prefer an online session when we schedule your first appointment.

  • Yes, I have a 24-hour cancellation policy. Since time has been reserved for you, if your session is canceled less than 24-hours before your appointment, you will be charged the full session fee.

  • You may park in any unmarked parking spot.

  • You have the right to receive a “Good Faith Estimate” explaining how much your medical and mental health care will cost.

    Under the law, health care providers need to give patients who don’t have insurance or who are not using insurance an estimate of the expected charges for medical services, including psychotherapy services.

    You have the right to receive a Good Faith Estimate for the total expected cost of any non-emergency healthcare services, including psychotherapy services.

    You can ask your health care provider, and any other provider you choose, for a Good Faith Estimate before you schedule a service.

    If you receive a bill that is at least $400 more than your Good Faith Estimate, you can dispute the bill. Make sure to save a copy or picture of your Good Faith Estimate.

    For questions or more information about your right to a Good Faith Estimate, visit www.cms.gov/nosurprises.

If you’re still unsure about starting your therapy in San Diego, feel free to contact me and book your free, 15-minute consultation call to explore how I can help!