FAQs
Are you open to working with people from diverse backgrounds and communities?
Do you take insurance?
Yes. Both providers offer in network services for Optum, Medica, UMR, UHC, UBC, Bind, and U-care. Please talk with your provider about other in network coverage options that may be available.
How much do your services cost?
The cost of services vary based on what your needs are and what treatment you are receiving at the time. Services are scheduled in 50 to 60 minute time blocks for induvial sessions and and 90 to 120 minute for group and other services. Prices vary based on these and other factors and are discussed during your initial session with your provider. You may also call to discuss your financial situation before scheduling your first session.
What if I don't have insurance, can I still make an appointment?
If you do not have access to insurance or are otherwise experiencing financial difficulty, there are other payment options available to cover the cost of services. Please talk to your therapist about what those options are for you to minimize the impact on your treatment. RWS accepts the following forms of payment for your convenience; cash, credit card via Stripe using the Simple Practice and online portals. All payments are due at the time of service unless other arrangements are made.
Good Faith Estimate
Effective January 1, 2022, the No Surprises Act* (NSA) protects uninsured (or self-pay) individuals from unexpectedly high medical bills.If you do not have certain types of health insurance or do not plan to use that insurance to pay for health care items or services, you are eligible to receive a “good faith estimate” of what you may be charged, before you receive the item or service. The good faith estimate (or GFE) is a notification that outlines your expected charges for your scheduled or requested item or service.If you are eligible for a GFE, you will be informed of its availability to you at the time of scheduling. To determine your eligibility, you will be asked if you are enrolled in a group health plan, group or individual health insurance coverage offered by a health insurance issuer, or a FEHB health benefits plan and if you seeking to have a claim submitted for the items or services with such plan or coverage. If not, you are considered self-pay for the purposes of the good faith estimate.Under the law, you have the right to• Be given information about the good faith estimate for uninsured (or self-pay) individuals when scheduling an item or service or when questions about the cost of items or services occur.• Be provided the good faith estimate no later than 1 business day after the date of scheduling; 3 business days after the day of scheduling if your appointment is more than 10 days out or no later than 3 business days after you make a request for one.• If you receive a bill that is at least $400 more than your Good Faith Estimate, you can dispute the bill via the patient-provider dispute resolution process (PPDR)• You will need to have a paper or electronic copy of your GFE. Make sure to save a copy in a safe place.For questions or more information about your right to a Good Faith Estimate, visit https://www.cms.gov/nosurprises or call 800-985-3059.
Good Faith Estimates
I work most days, can I get an evening or weekend appointment?
Yes, there are limited evening and weekend hours that are available.
How late can I cancel an appointment?
We ask that you cancel or reschedule an appointment as soon as you know that you will be unable to keep your scheduled appointment. Please give us at least 24 hours advance notice. Less than 24 hours notice will result in you remaining responsible for the entire session fee.
I’ve never talked to anyone. I’m used to handling things on my own. Aren’t people who go to therapy weak?
Not at all. People who ask for help know when they need it and have the courage to reach out. Everyone needs help now and then. In our work together, I’ll help you explore and identify your strengths and how to implement them to reduce the influence of the problems you are facing.
What’s the difference between talking to you or my best friend or family?
The difference is between someone who can do something, and someone who has the training and experience to do that same thing professionally. A mental health professional can help you approach your situation in a new way– teach you new skills, gain different perspectives, listen to you without judgment or expectations, and help you listen to yourself. Furthermore, counseling is completely confidential. You won’t have to worry about others “knowing my business.” Lastly, if your situation provokes a great deal of negative emotion, and you’ve been confiding in a friend or family member, there is the risk that once you are feeling better you could start avoiding that person so you aren’t reminded of this difficult time in your life.
Why shouldn’t I just take medication?
Medication can be effective but it alone cannot solve all issues. Sometimes medication is needed in conjunction with counseling. Our work together is designed to explore and unpack the problems you are experiencing and expand on your strengths that can help you accomplish your personal goals.
How does it work? What do I have to do in sessions?
Because each person has different issues and goals for counseling, it will be different depending on the individual. I tailor my therapeutic approach to your specific needs.
How long will it take?
Unfortunately, this is not possible to say in a general FAQs page. Everyone’s circumstances are unique to them and the length of time counseling can take to allow you to accomplish your goals depends on your desire for personal development, your commitment, and the factors that are driving you to seek counseling in the first place.
I want to get the most out of therapy. What can I do to help?
I am so glad you are dedicated to getting the most out of your sessions. Your active participation and dedication will be crucial to your success.