WHAT CAN I EXPECT at my first session?
When you reach out, we will initially schedule a 15 minute phone consultation. This allows for me to learn a bit more about what you’re looking for, for us to discuss any questions you might have, and to talk about scheduling and fees. If we determine that we might be a good fit, then we will schedule an initial 90 minute in-person consult.
During this initial consult we will go over some paperwork, I will tell you a little more about myself and my practice, and then we will talk a lot about you! This initial session gives me a chance to learn about you, your history, and the reasons that you’re seeking therapy. It also allows for both of us to determine if we are a good fit, and if so what treatment together may look like. If in this session we determine that your needs don’t align with my specialties, I have a large network of colleagues across the New York City area and will be sure to help connect you to another clinician who will be better suited to what you’re looking for.
HOW OFTEN DO WE MEET?
If we do decide to work together, we will develop a treatment plan in the first few sessions given you specific needs and treatment goals. Regular sessions are 45 minutes long and typically happen weekly; during our initial consult we will determine if more or less intensive treatment is needed.
HOW LONG WILL I BE DOING THIS FOR?
The amount of time that people are engaged in regular therapy varies greatly. Some individuals come in looking to solve a specific problem or symptom, and this might require a shorter course of treatment (4 - 6 months, for example). Others find that therapy is a process and while you will see some immediate results, it generally takes some time and patience before noticing more long-lasting results.
How much?
During our phone consultation, we will discuss my fees and any specific needs that you have. If you have any concerns about fees or if my services are at a rate that you cannot afford, I will help you with referrals and connect you to alternate providers.
how does Payment work?
Payment is expected at the time of service; payable by credit card, check, cash, or Venmo. If you are paying by cash, check, or Venmo, payment is due on the day you have a session, otherwise I retain a credit or debit card on file to automatically charge for your appointments on a weekly basis.
do you take Insurance?
I am an out-of-network provider, which means I do not take any insurance. But, depending on your out-of-network benefits you may be eligible for either partial or full reimbursement for therapy. Coverage for my services will vary depending on your health insurance provider and specific plan.
To receive coverage through your out-of-network benefits, patients pay me in full and then submit a claim to their insurance. I will provide the necessary treatment receipt (often called a “superbill form”) to submit for out-of-network claim filing. After the claim is submitted and filed, individuals receive a check for the reimbursement. This can often take 6-8 weeks, but it does work!
I recommend calling your insurance company and asking the following questions to determine the coverage that you have:“I am going to a clinical psychologist for an initial intake and likely follow up with weekly psychotherapy. She does not accept any insurance so I would like to know what my out of network benefits are. Dr. Brandolini's NPI # is 1871958405, and the CPT codes that she will most likely use will be 90791 for initial intake, and 90834 for each following session. Based on that, can you tell me what percentage/dollar amount I can expect to be reimbursed?"
Is there a cap (maximum amount) you will pay for an office visit/given year?
Do I have a deductible I must first meet? If so, how much is that?
Do I need preauthorization? If so, can you grant me preauthorization to see this provider with the information I just gave you?
What paperwork is required to submit claims for out-of-network reimbursement? (This is usually called a "superbill" and also a claims form, ask where you can find their claims form). Is there a specific claim form I must use to submit claims and if so, where can I access that?
Where do you submit this paperwork? (sometimes it's online, sometimes it's by mail only)
How much time after a doctor’s visit do I have to submit a claim?
what is your Cancellation Policy?
If you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment, please make sure to cancel at least 24 hours in advance. If you cancel or reschedule within that 24 hour window, you will be responsible for the entire session fee.