Frequently Asked Questions

The initial consultation is a brief 15 minute introductory call, which takes place over a HIPAA compliant video platform. This is an opportunity for me to learn a little about your reasons for seeking therapy, your needs, and what you hope to accomplish through therapy.  This is also an opportunity for you to ask any questions you may have about my therapy practice and/or therapeutic approach.  Information about billing, scheduling, paperwork and other administrative items are also discussed.  If we decide to move forward in scheduling an initial session, you will be sent client paperwork via a HIPAA secure portal for you to review, complete, and sign prior to your first session.  Please note that a consultation does not constitute a professional relationship, which is only established after meeting and signing a therapeutic contract.  If we are not a good fit, I will offer referrals to other therapists who may be a good fit for you.  

I am an in-network provider with HMSA.  I accept HMSA PPO, HMSA Akamai Advantage (Medicare), and Medicaid (Med-QUEST). 

If you are using insurance, I am required to provide you with a mental health diagnosis and share this diagnosis with the insurance company. The diagnosis becomes part of your permanent medical record.  I will also be required to follow a treatment plan that relates to that diagnosis. Your insurance company may choose to deny or modify your treatment, based on their medical necessity criteria. 

The private pay rate for a 60 minute session is $150 

I use Stripe, a HIPAA compliant payment processor which accepts most major credit and debit cards.. For insurance clients, applicable co-pays, coinsurance and deductibles are charged within 48 hours of session. Applicable deductibles are charged within 48 hours of claim remittance. It is your responsibility to contact your insurance company to clarify your insurance benefit coverage. 

If you are paying out of pocket for your sessions (not using your insurance), your credit card will be charged for each session on the date of the session.

I have a 24-hour cancelation policy. I charge a $100 fee if the appointment is not cancelled within this timeframe. Exceptions may be made for unforeseen events/emergency situations at my discretion. Insurance does not reimburse you for no-show/late cancellation fees.

Online therapy offers you the convenience of accessing therapy from a private space where you feel most comfortable - without having to spend time sitting in traffic or finding parking, so you can reserve more of your precious time for the things that matter.  New clients will receive an invitation to a secure client portal and be sent a virtual meeting link.  Please note that you must be physically located in the state of Hawaii during each session. 

Under the "No Surprises Act", if you are not using your health insurance plan, you have the right to receive a “Good Faith Estimate” providing an estimate for expected charges for psychotherapy services.  You can ask for a "Good Faith Estimate" prior to scheduling an appointment up until one day prior to a scheduled appointment.  In the event that you receive a bill that is $400 or more higher than the "Good Faith Estimate", you can dispute the bill. 

Appointments are available Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 3:00 pm, and Saturdays from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm. All sessions are held virtually via telehealth for clients located in Hawaiʻi.