Question 1

Fees

Accepted Answer

Free 15-minute phone consultation
Contact me for information about rates for 50-minute appointments
Sliding fee available based on need
Clinical supervision for Licensed Graduate Professional Counselors in DC or Maryland – contact me for rates
Domestic abuse and sexual assault clinical consultation for medical and mental health professionals – contact me for rates
Clients may pay with credit card, Flexible Spending Account (FSA), or Health Savings Account (HSA).

Question 2

Insurance

Accepted Answer

I am not an in-network provider. Many insurance policies offer out-of-network benefits, and may provide some reimbursement after your out-of-network deductible is met. You will receive superbills, which are the forms that insurance companies need in order to process out-of-network claims.

Here are questions that you can ask your carrier:

Do my out-of-network benefits cover behavioral health services (CPT codes 90791 and 90837)?
What is my annual out-of-network deductible, and how much of it have I met so far this year?
After the out-of-network deductible is met, what percentage of my psychotherapy services are reimbursed?
Is there a limit to how many out-of-network therapy sessions are covered in a year?
What is the easiest way for me to file a claim?
Do I need prior authorization for out-of-network psychotherapy?

Question 3

How long does therapy take?

Accepted Answer

Each one of my clients has a unique process that is based on their own therapy goals so  it varies from person to person.

Question 4

How often will we meet?

Accepted Answer

Most of my clients meet with me weekly. As you wrap up your therapy journey with me, you may want to decrease to bi-weekly, monthly, or as-needed appointments.

Question 5

What are your office hours?

Accepted Answer

Currently, I offer weekday appointments between the hours of 9 am and 4 pm.

Question 6

Do you offer in-person appointments?

Accepted Answer

Yes, I offer a limited number of in-person therapy sessions in Downtown Silver Spring. If there is an increase in the number of clients who want to meet in person, I may add additional days. The office building I use has security cameras in order to ensure safety within the building.

There are multiple public garages within 1-3 blocks of the office. It is located within walking distance of Silver Spring Metro Station and along multiple bus routes.

Question 7

How do you protect my privacy?

Accepted Answer

Ensuring my clients’ confidentiality is a priority. I count on you to communicate any concerns you have about common forms of communication (email, phone, text, etc.).
Most of my clients fill out electronic intake forms. However, if electronic communication does not feel safe given your circumstances, we can find alternative ways of sharing hard copies of your intake forms with me.
For more information about HIPAA click here. 
I use a HIPAA-compliant telehealth platform called SimplePractice. If there are any issues with using this platform, we can use Zoom. My Zoom account is HIPAA-compliant.

Question 8

What is your cancellation policy?

Accepted Answer

I have a 24-hour cancellation notice. The Practice Policies intake form outlines additional details.

Question 9

What are the first steps prior to starting therapy?

Accepted Answer

Connecting with a new therapist is different for everyone, and can feel overwhelming. My priority is to help you feel seen, heard, and safe during this process, and to identify your options. When you are ready, contact me to schedule a free phone consultation. If it is a good match, we can schedule an intake and start moving towards your goals.

E-mail, call, or text me to request a free 15-minute phone consultation. tali@mcwtherapy.com or (301) 960-8740
If it feels like a good fit, we will schedule a date and time for your intake appointment.

Question 10

What can I expect from my first appointment?

Accepted Answer

During your 50-minute intake appointment I will provide basic information about confidentiality, practice policies, and answer your questions about the e-forms or therapy in general.

The start of therapy will be about getting to know each other and seeing if it feels like a good fit. You may share as much of your story as you are comfortable with, and we can explore your goals for therapy. You will not be expected to prepare any talking points ahead of this appointment. A part of my focus will be to help you feel comfortable and supported within our shared space.

Question 11

How do I tell if this is a good fit for me?

Accepted Answer

Your connection with your therapist, what we call the therapeutic alliance, is an important factor in your therapy journey. Trust your gut during and in between sessions to tell you if it is a good fit for you. My priority is to help you find the best fit for you. If at any time you want to look for other providers, I will do my best to try to find alternative therapists.

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