Answers to common questions regarding therapy at our practice
Therapy FAQ
How long does each therapy session take?
Sessions are 55 minutes long. Occasionally it may be better to go on with a session, rather than stop or postpone work on a particular issue. When this extension is more than 10 minutes, your therapist will tell you, because sessions that are extended beyond 10 minutes will be charged on a prorated basis. Some insurances will cover extended sessions based on medical necessity criteria.
How long will I be in psychotherapy?
Psychotherapy is unique to the individual and the length of treatment cannot be determined from the outset. Therapy depends on many factors in relation to the individual and to the scope of issues to be addressed. Successful psychotherapy also depends on maintaining the momentum of the work. Thus, committing to attend regularly set sessions is important. Most clients find weekly sessions the most productive. At times, your therapist may recommend bi-weekly, or twice-a-week sessions are the right pace for you. This will be discussed during your initial visit and revisited if the recommendation changes.
Do you offer online virtual therapy?
Yes. Online sessions are available to those who reside in New Jersey. You must be physically located in New Jersey during each session due to licensing regulations. Some insurance companies will cover online sessions. It is best to call your insurance and ask if your specific policy covers this service. Online sessions are conducted over a HIPAA compliant platform.
How much does seeing a therapist cost?
If you are using insurance, the cost is dependent upon your policy and may include a co-payment, deductible, or co-insurance. These fees are determined by your insurance company and are due each session. Some people do not pay anything. Others have a small co-payment, while some have a large deductible. Each policy is different. It is best to contact your insurance company to verify your benefits prior to the first session.
If you are utilizing out-of-network benefits or private self-pay, the fee schedule is as follows:
Standard Services:
Initial Evaluation $250
Individual 55-minute session $200
Family sessions $175
Reduced rate sessions available for those who do not have insurance or have an insurance we do not accept - Individual 45-minute session $60
Couples/Family 45-minute session $80.
To help meet the needs of the community, we offer services with our associate licensed associate therapist at a reduced rate. These rates are reserved for those who do not have insurance or have insurance we do not accept. Associate therapists are able to accept select insurances and are under the supervision of Kimberly Schaffer, Maureen Mulvanerton, Kathleen Azzaro, Andrea Magistro, and Annette Smith. Associate licensed therapists are licensed in New Jersey and have met all education requirements to practice under the supervision of a certified clinical supervisor.
Specialized Services:
Clinical Consultation via phone contact (not a meeting) $150
Clinical Consultation virtual or in-person meetings $350 per hour plus travel time
Reports $250 per hour
Letters $150 per hour
Clinical consultation with other professionals (psychiatrists, primary care physicians, therapists, school staff) is provided at the rate of $150 per hour.
Charges for other services, such as hospital visits, home visits, or school meetings will be based on the time involved in providing the service at the hourly rate of $350 including travel time.
Some services may require payment in advance. We write letters for established clients for specific clinical issues. We do not write letters to the court for visitation or custody determinations, emotional support animals, medical cannabis cards, or any matters related to employment or fitness to serve.
Administrative Fees:
Late cancellation/No Show Fee - $75
Late cancellation/No Show Fee with Associate Therapist - $60
Medical Records - $1.00 per page or $100 for the entire record (whichever is less)
Returned Check Fee - $35
Collection Service Fees - 45% additional charge