Question 1

How do I know if you are a good therapist for me?

Accepted Answer

In order for therapy to be beneficial for you, there has to be a level of trust and safety between you and your therapist. While I work to understand the needs and preferences of each of my clients, the best way to know to determine if I am a good fit for you is to schedule an appointment. Clients can usually tell in one or two sessions if they believe I am the right therapist for them. 
 
I also encourage clients to be honest about their experience in therapy. If I have said or done something that is hurtful or upsetting, I ask you to please bring it up in session so that we can process the experience. 
 
If it turns out that I am not the best therapist for you, I am happy to help you find another therapist from a list of referral sources who may be a better fit for you.

Question 2

What can I expect on my first visit?

Accepted Answer

It is common for clients to experience anxiety coming into their first session. We will start our time by reviewing the new client paperwork that you complete before coming in. We will review my practice policies and informed consent. Then we will dig in with why you thought therapy would be helpful. 
 
It can take a couple of sessions where we discuss a variety of aspects of your life, depending on your goals. I think of it as you painting a picture for me of your life, with many colors and layers that impact the whole picture.

Question 3

Do you offer Teletherapy?

Accepted Answer

Yes! I am able to do Teletherapy through my HIPPA compliant platform, SimplePractice. This is a great option for those who still want to come to session but may be showing symptoms of potential illness. It is also an option for Oklahoma residents who live in a rural area, without access to a therapist close by. While I always prefer in person sessions, Teletherapy is a great alternative when that isn't possible. 
 
During COVID-19, most insurance companies are reimbursing for Teletherapy sessions, often waiving the co-pay for clients. Please call your insurance company prior to scheduling a Teletherapy session to verify your coverage for these sessions.

Question 4

What are your fees?

Accepted Answer

I charge $200 for a 55 minute session. Payment will be collected at the time of service. Counseling can be paid for out of your Health Savings Account, credit card, check, or cash.  Cancellation Policy: I ask for 24 hours notice if you need to cancel or reschedule a session. Otherwise, you will be responsible for the full rate of the session, as insurance will not cover any portion of sessions that are not attended.

Question 5

Do you accept Insurance?

Accepted Answer

I am an in network provider with Healthchoice and WebTPA and will electronically file claims for you. If have another insurance or PPO type plan and want to submit a claim for out-of-network reimbursement, I can provide a superbill to help facilitate any reimbursement you may be entitled to. Please note that submitting an insurance claim means I will need to give you a mental health diagnosis. I always encourage clients to contact their insurance administrator in advance to ask specifics about their plan so they will know the impact therapy will have on their finances.

Question 6

What are the benefits for paying out of pocket instead of filing with my insurance?

Accepted Answer

Electing to pay completely out of pocket allows you the most privacy and control of your treatment. Your records remain free from any audit or compliance check. Insurance is not informed of any mental health diagnosis or treatment. You maintain the most flexibility and control in deciding your session frequency, longevity, content, and interventions. You maintain the greatest privacy about your life, work, marriage, kids, and mental health issues. Providers are able to protect your health information with the greatest degree of privacy.

Question 7

What questions should I ask my insurance provider before scheduling a session?

Accepted Answer

Asking these questions will help determine the benefits of your insurance for counseling services. 
 
Consider asking these questions if you plan to use in-network benefits: 
-Does my insurance plan cover outpatient mental health services?
-Do I have a deductible I have to meet first? If so, how much is it and how much have I met? When does my deductible reset?
-What will my out of pocket cost be? Is there a co-pay, co-insurance, or percentage of the cost that I am responsible to pay for sessions?
-Does my insurance policy limit the number of sessions I can have in a calendar year?
 
Consider asking these questions if you plan to use out-of-network benefits: 
-What is the policy/coverage for an out-of-network provider?
-Is there a deductible?
-What is the rate of reimbursement?
-Do I need prior-authorization?
-What is the process for reimbursement?

Question 8

I hear therapists use different "theories" and wonder which you use?"

Accepted Answer

There are many different styles therapists use based off theories they have studied, align with, and have training in. I think many therapists, including myself, are eclectic, using a variety of theories. Part of what informs the theory I use in session depends on the needs of the client. I am naturally drawn toward Attachment and healing hurts from our past, as well as in our relationships. I have attended additional training in Emotionally Focused Therapy, also known as EFT or EFT-C for couples, and EMDR. I also utilize many aspects of IFS, Narrative, CBT, and Family Systems in many sessions.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions about counseling with Shae Gregston, LPC, LMFT