FAQs
Payment
We accept cash, check, Visa, American Express, and Mastercard as forms of payment. If you have a flexible spending account (FSA) or health savings account (HSA) those can be used to pay for therapy! We do require that a valid credit card be kept on file for all clients.
What should I expect in my first session?
Initial therapy sessions typically entail an assessment phase in which clients discuss what led them to seek treatment and any previous experience(s) in therapy. Clinical assessments are preformed and the clinician and the client will work together to develop treatment goals collaboratively. During this session the clinician also provides information regarding their therapeutic approach and confidentiality and its limits. No need to be nervous. Your main job will be to grab a cup of coffee or tea and relax while we talk about what brought you to therapy.
How long does therapy take?
Every person, couple and family is unique and so are their circumstances, so there is no way to determine how long each client/couple or family will need to work through the feelings and challenges that led them to seek treatment. The clinicians are committed to working with clients to create a safe therapeutic space so clients can take the time needed.
How often are sessions?
Sessions generally take place once a week.
Is Mrs. Abaku a Doctor?
No, She is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a Bachelor's degree from Virginia Commonwealth University and a Masters from Mercy College.
What are the benefits of paying out of pocket versus going through my insurance?
Clients who pay out of pocket are guaranteed a higher level of confidentiality meaning that the only people who know any of the details of treatment are themselves and their therapist. When you bill through your insurance company they can request information exchanged in session. Insurance providers require a mental health diagnosis in order for therapy to be covered. This means that many issues (such as martial problems, life stress, or personal growth) are not covered by insurance anyway. When clients pay out-of-pocket, there is no requirement of a mental health diagnosis for treatment. It is important to consider that once a diagnosis becomes a part of your permanent medical record it can potentially effect the consideration of future policies, such as, Life Insurance, Short and Long Term Disability.
Does insurance pay for couples counseling?
Most insurance plans will only cover “medical” illness and therefore do not pay benefits for couples therapy. Please contact your insurance company directly, using their phone number for mental health benefits, and ask them if you are covered for couples therapy. The biggest factor to keep in mind when using insurance for couples counseling is having a psychiatric diagnosis on your medical record. Insurance benefits can only be used for any type of counseling or therapy if an individual meets the criteria for a mental illness which falls under the distinction of "medically necessary" counseling or ''coaching to treat". These are some questions you should ask your insurer to find out if yours does:
CANCELLATION: Sessions not cancelled 24 hours before the scheduled day (48 hours for weekend appointments) will be charged the full session fee (except in cases of emergency or sudden illness). For therapy sessions, you are encouraged to reschedule your session whenever possible. Therapy Practice Late Policy: If you are running late for your appointment, please reach out as soon as possible to let me know. After 15 minutes with no communication, the appointment will be considered a no-show appointment and will be rescheduled.
Payment
We accept cash, check, Visa, American Express, and Mastercard as forms of payment. If you have a flexible spending account (FSA) or health savings account (HSA) those can be used to pay for therapy! We do require that a valid credit card be kept on file for all clients.
What should I expect in my first session?
Initial therapy sessions typically entail an assessment phase in which clients discuss what led them to seek treatment and any previous experience(s) in therapy. Clinical assessments are preformed and the clinician and the client will work together to develop treatment goals collaboratively. During this session the clinician also provides information regarding their therapeutic approach and confidentiality and its limits. No need to be nervous. Your main job will be to grab a cup of coffee or tea and relax while we talk about what brought you to therapy.
How long does therapy take?
Every person, couple and family is unique and so are their circumstances, so there is no way to determine how long each client/couple or family will need to work through the feelings and challenges that led them to seek treatment. The clinicians are committed to working with clients to create a safe therapeutic space so clients can take the time needed.
How often are sessions?
Sessions generally take place once a week.
Is Mrs. Abaku a Doctor?
No, She is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a Bachelor's degree from Virginia Commonwealth University and a Masters from Mercy College.
What are the benefits of paying out of pocket versus going through my insurance?
Clients who pay out of pocket are guaranteed a higher level of confidentiality meaning that the only people who know any of the details of treatment are themselves and their therapist. When you bill through your insurance company they can request information exchanged in session. Insurance providers require a mental health diagnosis in order for therapy to be covered. This means that many issues (such as martial problems, life stress, or personal growth) are not covered by insurance anyway. When clients pay out-of-pocket, there is no requirement of a mental health diagnosis for treatment. It is important to consider that once a diagnosis becomes a part of your permanent medical record it can potentially effect the consideration of future policies, such as, Life Insurance, Short and Long Term Disability.
Does insurance pay for couples counseling?
Most insurance plans will only cover “medical” illness and therefore do not pay benefits for couples therapy. Please contact your insurance company directly, using their phone number for mental health benefits, and ask them if you are covered for couples therapy. The biggest factor to keep in mind when using insurance for couples counseling is having a psychiatric diagnosis on your medical record. Insurance benefits can only be used for any type of counseling or therapy if an individual meets the criteria for a mental illness which falls under the distinction of "medically necessary" counseling or ''coaching to treat". These are some questions you should ask your insurer to find out if yours does:
- Specifically ask, “Do you pay for diagnostic code Z63.0 – Problems in relationship with spouse or partner”
- If they do, ask them what procedure code it should be billed under. Make them look it up and give you a reference. Ask how many sessions they will cover. Have them provide that information to you in writing.
CANCELLATION: Sessions not cancelled 24 hours before the scheduled day (48 hours for weekend appointments) will be charged the full session fee (except in cases of emergency or sudden illness). For therapy sessions, you are encouraged to reschedule your session whenever possible. Therapy Practice Late Policy: If you are running late for your appointment, please reach out as soon as possible to let me know. After 15 minutes with no communication, the appointment will be considered a no-show appointment and will be rescheduled.
