FAQs

What do I need for online therapy?

As long as you have a reliable internet connection, a confidential space you can use during sessions, and a device with a camera and microphone, you can participate in online therapy. 

Why online therapy? 

Online therapy allows for easy and convenient scheduling, as well as greater flexibility with session times. Participating in sessions online still ensures your confidentiality, like coming to an office in person, while also increasing accessibility for those who work long hours, have busy schedules, live in rural areas, or have physical limitations that make it difficult to leave home. Come as you are! If you would like, feel free to visit some research articles here and here that support the effectiveness of online therapy.

What is Headway?

Headway is the company that I use to complete the billing for my practice for BCBS and Cigna. They are responsible for charging payments for sessions as well as billing insurance. Working with Headway allows me to stay focused on my clients and continue to be the best clinician I can be. (Please note that I do accept Optum/UnitedHealthcare and Aetna, but I bill directly for those.)

If you offer online therapy only, how do I complete forms and make payments? 

This can all be done online through various platforms. Use the patient portal through Sessions Health to complete necessary forms or send a secure message. If you have BCBS or Aetna and need to update your insurance, use Headway's website. For easy access to these links, visit the Patient Links tab here.

What is "Sessions by Psychology Today?"

"Sessions by Psychology Today" is the website where our virtual sessions will take place. You will receive an email before our virtual session that includes a link to our private video call. Sessions is HIPAA compliant and has end-to-end encryption. There is an app available. 

I'm having a problem with billing. Who do I contact?

Headway is the company that manages billing and insurance for BCBS and Aetna. Here is a link to their contact page. Alternatively, you can also call the number on the back of your insurance card.

Do you offer sliding scale options? 

Yes, I am a provider with Open Path Collective, a nonprofit company aiming to increase access to mental health care by providing lower cost services to those who are uninsured or underinsured. I have a limited number of slots available in my weekly schedule that are sliding scale. Please contact me if you would like to be considered, or to check if I have slots available.

What is the No Surprises Act?

The No Surprises Act was passed in 2022 as an attempt to have clients understand their charges before receiving healthcare services. The Good Faith Estimate provision under this act requires letting clients know that they have a right to receive an estimate of their charges if they are without insurance or are self-pay. Request an estimate from me by emailing me at info@claracounseling.com.