Rates for counseling

“I was hesitant about investing in therapy, I wasn’t sure it would be worth the money. It has turned out to be invaluable! I was battling depression, struggling in my marriage, and turning 50 years old. My husband was not interested in doing therapy so I went on my own. Alison helped me build a skill set that has revamped my marriage and has lifted the depression cloud. I really couldn’t imagine that life could be this enjoyable. I’ve learned so much about myself and have stocked my toolbox for challenging times. She was even a tremendous help with parenting tips!!! I was seeing Alison weekly and now see her every 2-3 months for supportive check-ins. She’s dynamic and holistic in her approach so I envision continuing to see her for many years to come. I’ve recommended Alison to colleagues and friends. Her services should not be kept a secret!!!”

-PD, 52-year-old

A private APPROACH TO MENTAL HEALTH CARE

tailored TO YOUR PERSONALITY AND GOALS

WITH APPOINTMENT DURATION AND FREQUENCY TO SUPPORT lasting change!

6 ETHICALLY-BASED REASONS I CHOOSE NOT TO WORK WITH MANAGED CARE COMPANIES (MCCs)…

#1 – MANDATORY DIAGNOSIS

A mental health diagnosis is required to bill insurance and this stays on your permanent health care record. Many times individuals are challenged with symptoms that do not meet full diagnostic criteria, and I do not believe this makes them less worthy of getting help.

#2 – RESTRICTED CHOICE & TREATMENT

MCCs decide if you qualify to use your insurance for therapy and restrict your choice of therapist, the number of sessions you have, the duration of each session, what is discussed in therapy, and what kind of therapy is provided.

Yikes!

This meets their financial goals but may fail to give you the therapy you need to make changes you want. Some even have gag clauses to prevent therapists from suggesting more effective treatments (because they are not cost-effective for the MCC).

#3 – CONFIDENTIALITY

MCCs, insurance gatekeepers, and utilization review professionals require access to your personal information and file notes, this allows many people to view your personal information and details of your sessions.

#4 – CONFLICTS OF INTEREST

My primary concern is for your well-being. MCCs purpose is to control escalating health care costs. Their primary motive is to reduce costs and increase profits, second to financial gain comes quality of care considerations.

#5 – LAPSE IN COVERAGE

MCCs demand a case be made for the “necessity” (which is defined by them) of your therapy. If a limited number of sessions is granted to start and you wish to continue therapy thereafter, another “case” must be made for additional sessions and approval is often not granted. These imposed hiatuses are detrimental to your progress.

#6 – MEDICATION

Research consistently shows that psychiatric medication is most effective when combined with psychotherapy. Despite this, MCCs frequently approve ‘medication only’ for their members.