frequently asked questions
WHAT IS THERAPY?
Psychotherapy or counseling is a process of talking to a trained professional about a wide range of life challenges: emotional distress, family difficulties, mood problems, grief and loss, or relationship concerns. It can also be used to aid in personal growth, meet personal goals, and improve one's ability to cope with everyday challenges. What should happen in therapy depends on three things: 1. The Issue Present, 2. The Therapy Format, and 3. The Theoretical Orientation. For example counseling for time-management issues is very different from counseling for anger management issues. Moreover, the format can vary as well. Individual Therapy looks very different from Couples Therapy and Family Therapy. And finally, Theoretical Orientation has to do with the framework through which the therapist understands the problem. A good therapist makes you feel heard and understood. The therapeutic relationship should feel positive and offer hope. It is important that as a client you know what you should get out of the process. If you don't see this happening, please inform us.
HOW LONG WILL THERAPY LAST?
A typical therapy session is 50 minutes long. Sometimes Family Therapy sessions may be extended to accommodate several people. There is a lot of back and forth discussion in therapy, practice, and role-play as well as homework. Depending on the issue, therapy will usually end in 4 to 6 sessions, or it may continue for several months.
WILL I BE REFERRED TO OTHER THERAPISTS AS A PART OF MY TREATMENT?
Periodically it becomes necessary for a referral to be made to other providers. This occurs when the issue or problem which is presented requires additional expertise, special knowledge, or resources that your therapist may not have. If this becomes necessary we will explain to you what your options are.
HOW MUCH WILL THERAPY COST?
In establishing fees, professional counselors and therapists consider the financial status of their clients and the locality. If a therapist’s customary fees create an undue financial hardship for the client, the therapist may adjust fees, when legally permissible, or assist the client in locating comparable, affordable services. We have a One-Time Consultation fee of $150. for Individuals and $180. for Couples and Families. There is a set fee of $130 for each 50 minute Individual session, and a set fee of $160. for each 50 minute session with Couples and Families. There is no Initial Consultation fee for those who are considered appropriate for Group Therapy. Only the $75. per session fee applies. If finances prevent you from receiving our services we will make an effort to work with you and your situation.
DO YOU ACCEPT INSURANCE?
We do not accept any type of health insurance. However, we can provide a letter of receipt that you can submit to your insurance company for possible reimbursement. Because insurance plans vary, please first check with your insurance provider, to see if you have Out-of-Network benefits and whether you will qualify for reimbursement.
WHAT FORMS OF PAYMENT ARE ACCEPTED?
We accept cash or checks. We regret that at present, we are not able to accept credit cards. Checks should be made payable to Thoughtprint Consulting. Payment is due at each session. Accounts must be kept current in order to continue Counseling Services.
WHAT IS THE CANCELLATION POLICY?
If you need to cancel or re-schedule your appointment, you must notify us 24 hours before your scheduled appointment time. You will be charged in full for your scheduled session if you fail to contact us in advance. This charge must be paid before or at the time of your next appointment to continue your sessions. Exceptions are made in emergency situations only.
WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO CONTACT US?
For scheduling and canceling your appointment call us at- 202-469-1077. Please note that leaving a voice mail after 5:00 PM may result in a missed appointment.