Initial Phone Consultation
Good work begins with the right fit. We start with a complimentary, confidential phone consultation. You tell us what’s bringing you here, we answer your questions about how we work, and together we decide whether this is the right match. If it is, we’ll find a time that fits a demanding schedule. If another clinician would serve you better, we will help to point you there directly.
Fees
We are happy to discuss our current fees with you directly. Because we do not bill insurance, we also give every client a written Good Faith Estimate before the first session, so the cost is clear from the start and there are no surprises.
Under the federal No Surprises Act, you have the right to receive a Good Faith Estimate explaining how much your care is expected to cost. We provide every client who is not using insurance with a written estimate of expected charges before the first appointment, and at any time upon request. For questions or more information, visit www.cms.gov/nosurprises or ask us.
Insurance
MCBA does not participate in any private insurance plans, Medicare or Medicaid. You are responsible for payment upon each visit. We provide you with an invoice, which you may submit to your insurance provider. Insurance plans vary widely and change frequently, and there is no guarantee that your claim will be paid. Please call the telephone number on the back of your insurance card and ask a case manager what your plan covers for “outpatient mental health benefits” with an “out of network” licensed clinical psychologist practicing via telehealth in New York State.
Payments Accepted
Payment is due before or at the time of service. We accept cash, checks, debit cards, or in some cases, a credit card may be kept on file.
Cancellation Policy
Once an appointment is scheduled, we kindly request a minimum of 48 hours advance notice if you must cancel. This is necessary since a time commitment is made and held exclusively for you. Without proper notice, we cannot give your appointment slot to another client who may need it. Please remember that most insurance companies do not typically reimburse for no show or late cancellation appointments.
What to Expect at Your First Appointment
At your first meeting, you will be asked to complete some questionnaires or assessment tools in order for us to better help you. You and your therapist will discuss your goals for therapy and will develop a plan for addressing your concerns. Although cognitive therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy interventions are the primary techniques we will use to help you make changes in your life, we will work with you in a flexible and comprehensive manner to best meet your needs.