Professional Fees

I currently accept BlueCross BlueShield of WNY, Independent Health, Medicare, TRICARE, and Univera. I encourage you to call your insurance company to have a clear understanding of your behavioral health benefits, including copay, deductible, session limit, etc. My fee may be covered in full or in part by your health insurance as an out-of-network provider.  I will directly submit claims to your insurance company only if I am an in-network provider.  Otherwise, I will provide you with statements that you can submit for reimbursement after paying for services upfront.

Please check your coverage carefully prior to scheduling an appointment by asking the following questions:

  • Do I have mental health benefits?

  • What is my deductible and has it been met?

  • How many sessions per calendar year does my plan cover?

  • How much does my plan cover for an out-of-network provider?

  • What is the coverage amount per therapy session?

  • Is approval required from my primary care physician?

Insurance

You should be aware that if you are utilizing insurance, there can be limits imposed by the insurance company as to how many visits are covered and that approved visits must be considered "medically necessary" as determined by a documented diagnosis determined by me through our initial evaluation. Insurance companies advocate brief therapy which is goal directed and problem focused.  Treatment is planned with specific goals in mind and progress is made toward accomplishment of that goal in a time efficient manner.  You will take an active role in setting and achieving your treatment goals. Your commitment to a treatment plan is necessary to experience the most successful outcome. I will employ evidence based interventions to support your work and growth.

Billing & Payment

Cash, checks and most major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover) are accepted for payment. Health Savings Account (HSA) and Flexible Spending Account (FSA) cards are also accepted. Payment is expected at the time of service.

Cancellation Policy

If you are unable to keep your scheduled appointment, and you have not notified me at least 24 hours in advance, you will be required to pay $50 for the missed session. Insurances will not pay for missed appointment fees and you will be responsible to cover this cost. 

If there are any concerns with my charges, my billing, your insurance, or any other money-related point, please bring it to my attention. I will do the same with you. Such problems can interfere with our work. They must be worked out openly and quickly. An appointment is a commitment to our work. If I am ever unable to start on time, I ask your understanding. I also assure you that you will receive the full time agreed to. If you are late, we will probably be unable to meet for the full time, because it is likely that I will have another appointment after yours.

Inclement Weather Agreement

Your physical safety is very important to me. If you do not feel safe traveling to my office due to inclement weather conditions please refrain from traveling. Your safety takes precedence over the Cancellation Policy (i.e., you will not be billed the session fee for canceling due to inclement weather). I do still ask that you contact me by 8:00am the day of your scheduled session.