Initial Meetings
In the first meeting perhaps you will tell me a little about yourself and what prompted you to call me. As I am listening and asking questions, you will be watching and listening to me to see if I feel like someone you wish to work with. It is useful to speak with me about the reactions you have to our meetings if you can. If you, or hopefully, we decide I am not a good match for you, I will be happy to recommend other excellent clinicians. If it feels after a few meetings like we both are comfortable we can begin arranging a regular schedule of appointments.
Fees
When we begin setting a schedule of appointments we will also establish a fee. My fees are generally commensurate with other psychoanalysts in the area. I have made a commitment to seeing some people, for example, students, at reduced fees. Please speak with me about financial concerns as we are having our initial sessions.
Payment
Payment is by cash or check. I do not accept credit cards at this time. Typically, I bill monthly and expect payment within two weeks.
Cancellation policy
If you are not present for an appointment you will still be responsible for the fee. If you give notice of an absence (48 hours or more) I will not charge. If you need to miss an appointment I will do my best to reschedule it within the week.
Insurance
I currently choose not to participate on any insurance panels or be a member of any "provider" networks. However, most insurance policies have an arrangement for seeing an “out-of-network” or "non-participating" clinician. You can learn about the specifics of your plan through your insurance company.
I have concerns about what is done with information once possessed by an insurance company. A psychiatric diagnosis is required for insurance reimbursement and this becomes part of one's permanent record. This can then be shared with other insurance companies (a life or disability for example) and in some cases be released to your employer (if you have a company provided plan.) In other words there can be unforeseen consequences of utilizing insurance for psychotherapy and I believe we need to talk about this before you choose to submit any information.
Fees
When we begin setting a schedule of appointments we will also establish a fee. My fees are generally commensurate with other psychoanalysts in the area. I have made a commitment to seeing some people, for example, students, at reduced fees. Please speak with me about financial concerns as we are having our initial sessions.
Payment
Payment is by cash or check. I do not accept credit cards at this time. Typically, I bill monthly and expect payment within two weeks.
Cancellation policy
If you are not present for an appointment you will still be responsible for the fee. If you give notice of an absence (48 hours or more) I will not charge. If you need to miss an appointment I will do my best to reschedule it within the week.
Insurance
I currently choose not to participate on any insurance panels or be a member of any "provider" networks. However, most insurance policies have an arrangement for seeing an “out-of-network” or "non-participating" clinician. You can learn about the specifics of your plan through your insurance company.
I have concerns about what is done with information once possessed by an insurance company. A psychiatric diagnosis is required for insurance reimbursement and this becomes part of one's permanent record. This can then be shared with other insurance companies (a life or disability for example) and in some cases be released to your employer (if you have a company provided plan.) In other words there can be unforeseen consequences of utilizing insurance for psychotherapy and I believe we need to talk about this before you choose to submit any information.