Online/ Video Psychotherapy and Hypnosis
Online therapy is available for folks who live in California.
If you live in another state, I may or may not be able to work with you, depending on the laws in your state. I can answer this for you.
If you want smoking cessation counseling/hypnosis, I can do this online with you no matter where you're located. Since this is not psychotherapy, the above licensing laws do not apply.
FAQs about teletherapy:
What online platform do you use?
Zoom
How does Zoom work?
If you've never used Zoom, it's easy! See this article for more info: https://nerdschalk.com/how-to-join-a-zoom-meeting-for-the-first-time/
Can we meet on FaceTime?
Yes, BUT be aware that some insurance plans may not cover teletherapy via FaceTime because it is not HIPPA-compliant. Currently HIPPA laws are relaxed, but this may not last beyond the pandemic.
How does teletherapy work?
First, I ask that you contact me to schedule a free 20-minute phone consultation. If we decide to move forward with working together, I will ask you to complete and return some paperwork prior to our first scheduled session.
For your sessions, you will need a quiet, confidential space (please do not drive during your appointment). Using your phone, tablet, or computer, you will connect with me on Zoom.
If you are seeing me for hypnosis, we will talk by video at the start of the session. When it is time to start the hypnosis, you will simply find a comfortable position in your favorite chair or other spot at home, close your eyes, and listen to my voice through earbuds. It's very important to have a reliable internet connection, and a private, quiet environment where you wont be disturbed.
We may also opt to keep the Zoom meeting going for the visual connection, mute our computers, and talk via phone for the hypnosis.
If you live in another state, I may or may not be able to work with you, depending on the laws in your state. I can answer this for you.
If you want smoking cessation counseling/hypnosis, I can do this online with you no matter where you're located. Since this is not psychotherapy, the above licensing laws do not apply.
FAQs about teletherapy:
What online platform do you use?
Zoom
How does Zoom work?
If you've never used Zoom, it's easy! See this article for more info: https://nerdschalk.com/how-to-join-a-zoom-meeting-for-the-first-time/
Can we meet on FaceTime?
Yes, BUT be aware that some insurance plans may not cover teletherapy via FaceTime because it is not HIPPA-compliant. Currently HIPPA laws are relaxed, but this may not last beyond the pandemic.
How does teletherapy work?
First, I ask that you contact me to schedule a free 20-minute phone consultation. If we decide to move forward with working together, I will ask you to complete and return some paperwork prior to our first scheduled session.
For your sessions, you will need a quiet, confidential space (please do not drive during your appointment). Using your phone, tablet, or computer, you will connect with me on Zoom.
If you are seeing me for hypnosis, we will talk by video at the start of the session. When it is time to start the hypnosis, you will simply find a comfortable position in your favorite chair or other spot at home, close your eyes, and listen to my voice through earbuds. It's very important to have a reliable internet connection, and a private, quiet environment where you wont be disturbed.
We may also opt to keep the Zoom meeting going for the visual connection, mute our computers, and talk via phone for the hypnosis.
Will insurance cover the online sessions?
The vast majority of insurance plans do cover online psychotherapy - especially in this time of COVID19, when certain rules and regulations have been relaxed in order to remove barriers to mental health treatment.
However, rumor has it that some health plans who have authorized teletherapy in response to the pandemic are likely to retract coverage when in-person treatment becomes more feasible and safe again.
If finances are an important consideration for you, I suggest you call your insurance provider to be sure they will cover video sessions, and check in periodically to make sure the coverage has not been retracted. Of course I will let you know if I hear about any potential changes.
I am happy to provide receipts for you to submit to your insurance if you have out of network benefits. I can also recommend an app that will streamline that process for you for a small fee.
The vast majority of insurance plans do cover online psychotherapy - especially in this time of COVID19, when certain rules and regulations have been relaxed in order to remove barriers to mental health treatment.
However, rumor has it that some health plans who have authorized teletherapy in response to the pandemic are likely to retract coverage when in-person treatment becomes more feasible and safe again.
If finances are an important consideration for you, I suggest you call your insurance provider to be sure they will cover video sessions, and check in periodically to make sure the coverage has not been retracted. Of course I will let you know if I hear about any potential changes.
I am happy to provide receipts for you to submit to your insurance if you have out of network benefits. I can also recommend an app that will streamline that process for you for a small fee.
