Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some answers to commonly asked questions to help de-mystify some of the words tossed around in therapy.
What is teletherapy?
Teletherapy is therapy provided online using a secure HIPAA complaint video platform. Studies have found that telehealth therapy is as effective as in-person therapy. There are also benefits to telehealth such as the convenience of being in the comfort of your own space, not needing to factor in a commute to a therapy office and having your furry friends with you (your therapists love virtually meeting your pets too!).
What is EMDR?
EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. EMDR is a formalized 8 phase therapy that uses a bilateral stimulus, like a back and forth eye movement or back and forth tapping, to reduce distress (usually distress related to whatever brought someone to therapy). There is strong evidence (see EMDRIA's website) to support the use of EMDR therapy for healing from trauma and other distressing life events. Our therapists were trained in EMDR by the Institute for Creative Mindfulness, incorporating mindfulness practices throughout the phases of EMDR (which means intentionally noticing internal reactions- what is coming up in the moment - without judgement). We will explore together if this is a right fit for you.
What is LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapy?
We provide LGBTQ+ and gender affirming therapy, meaning we provide therapy that validates and advocates for the identities, relationships, and needs of sexual and gender minority clients. Some acronyms you might see on our website mean: Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Queer, and more (LGBQ+), Gender and Sexual Diversity (GSD)/ Gender and Sexual Minorities (GSM), Transgender and Gender Non-Confirming (TGNC). Learn more about gender affirming therapy here. Understand more about the acronyms here, pronouns, and more here.
What is Anti-Oppression Informed Practice?
We provide therapy aligned with social justice. We recognize the structural roots of oppression and promote social transformation. We are attentive to the role of power and privilege inherently present in therapy.
What should I expect in my first telehealth session?
You will be greeted with compassion and empathy at your first session (and every session to follow!). The initial session is usually an information gathering session where you can share as much as your story as you feel comfortable with at your own pace. Your therapist will ask you questions about your symptoms and goals for therapy. During the first session, you and your therapist can also decide the frequency of sessions (usually weekly or bi-weekly).
What is your cancellation policy?
We require a 24 hour notice for session cancellations. You may do this by contacting your therapist through TherapyNotes, email or phone call. If you do not cancel at least 24 hours prior to your appointment, you will be charged a $75 cancellation fee.
What if the therapist I want to see doesn't take my insurance?
If the therapist you are interest in meeting with doesn't take your insurance, you will need to pay for your sessions individually ("self-pay"). You could explore using out of network benefits through your insurance. Out of Network means the provider you are interested doesn't have an agreement with your insurance company to accept payment on your behalf through the insurance company. To use Out of Network benefits, you would need to 1. ask your insurance company if they would reimburse you for your sessions with your therapist and 2. get an itemized bill from your therapist for each session that you would submit to your insurance company for your own reimbursement. There is no guarantee your health insurance will reimburse you for sessions with our therapists, so we strongly encourage you call your insurance company to find out.