Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions.

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How much does counseling cost?

After a 15-minute free consultation, and a follow-up initial intake, a typical session runs 45 minutes for $145. 

 

However, the length and rate of the session can be adjusted based on your needs and the following timeframes: 

 

Fees are due at the time of the session.

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Free Initial 15-minute Phone Consultation

The goal of the initial brief phone consultation is to answer any questions and to assess if this is a good fit. Dr. Stefan will ask for a brief synopsis of what brings you to counseling.

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One Time Initial Assessment/First Session

$175 for 55-minutes (following the free 15-minute phone consultation)

The first session, called an Assessment or Intake, involves a review of intake forms along with an assessment of your strengths and challenges in the development of your desired goals and treatment plan. 

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Individual Counseling Session

$80 for 25-minutes

$145 for 45-minutes

$175 for 55-minutes

Block sessions or longer intensive counseling sessions are also available and can be arranged and prorated accordingly.

 

Evening and Weekends as Available

$160 for 45-minutes

Although evenings and weekends are limited, sessions scheduled after 6pm and/or on weekends will be billed according to above rates.   

 

Eight Sessions in Advance

$1044 for eight 45-minute sessions ($130.5 per session/savings of $116) 

There is a 10% discount if sessions are paid eight sessions in advance. Reimbursement for partially used packages must be asked for in writing and reimbursement is subject to the “pay per session rate” of the sessions used.

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How long does it take?

Each session lasts typically 45 minutes. I will establish a regular schedule with you based on your specific need. You may come to counseling once or twice or may choose to continue counseling until you have met your self-improvement goals. Typically, I recommend meeting with a counselor or coach once a week. But twice a month, is an option as well. 

 

Will what I share be kept private?

All of your conversations with our staff are completely confidential except where mandated otherwise by law, as in the case of child abuse and/or elder abuse or imminent danger to yourself or others. Please refer to Disclosure and Consent forms provided in the intake process more details. 

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How do I make an appointment?

If you are ready to make an appointment, you can complete the "Contact Me" form below, and I will contact you within 24 hours. You can also email me at dr.dave@thecomealivecollaborative.com

 

What if I have to cancel my counseling session?

There is no charge for any session cancelled 24 or more hours prior to the scheduled time. However, sessions cancelled with less than 24-hour’s notice will be charged the full session fee.

 

Will my insurance company pay for counseling?

We are considered out of network with insurance. There are several reasons that we choose to not join insurance panels:

• Confidentiality: Your employer can find out if you are seeking mental health treatment when you use your insurance if you have a job that requires healthcare check. It can also be in your permanent medical records.

• Diagnosis: Insurance plans require that all clients be given a diagnosis to cover treatment. However, not all people who seek out therapy meet the criteria for a mental health diagnosis and could instead be struggling with one specific aspect of their life.

• Treatment limitations: Because insurance companies are often seeking to keep costs low, they can dictate the length of treatment and what modalities can be used, despite what may actually be in the best interests of the client.

 

Many insurance carriers do offer partial reimbursement for out of network services, so we encourage you to contact your health insurance provider to inquire about these potential benefits. We are happy to provide you with the necessary documentation to help receive these benefits. Although we are not able to submit claims to your insurance, we do accept payment via HSA/FSA cards. Please know that you are ultimately responsible for payment of the full fee, regardless of insurance costs/benefits. 

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We ask for payment at the time of service and provide a convenient and secure option for saving your payment information in our online Patient Portal. You can also use your Health Savings Account or Flex Spending Account for payment. We are happy to provide you with a bill detailing the service provided and the total amount paid.  Please note that any appointments cancelled within a 24 hour window of scheduled session are subject to a charge of the full session fee.

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How do I start counseling?

Contact me to arrange a free 15-minute initial consultation. No strings attached. Complete the form below with a phone number and email, and I will respond within 24 hours to set up a time. I am glad to answer questions about the counseling process. If we feel like we can work well together to address your needs, we can make an appointment. If either of us feel that this is not a good fit, I am happy to give suggestions or referrals for other counseling options.