Frequently Asked Questions

Once we confirm a meeting time, I will send you a link via Simple Practice, my online client portal, where you can review and complete the intake paperwork at least 24 hours before our first appointment.

During the initial session, I will be getting to know you. I will ask questions to understand your life history, worldview, strengths, concerns, needs, relationship dynamics, etc.  We will also identify therapy goals together. During this relationship-building process, I will gather information to aid in the therapeutic approach best suited for your needs and goals. If we determine that I am not the best fit for your therapeutic needs, or if you need a higher level of care, I will provide referrals for more appropriate treatment.

Therapy sessions are usually scheduled weekly or biweekly, allowing us to tailor the frequency to your unique needs. The duration of therapy varies based on the challenges at hand. Clients often experience progress toward their goals within 10-15 sessions. We will collaboratively determine the next steps and session frequency to best support your journey.

I am exclusively offering Telehealth appointments at the moment. Having licenses from three states (Florida, New York, and Illinois) allows me to see clients from a broader range of geographical locations in the comfort of their own private space. Telehealth is ideal for busy professionals, stay-at-home parents and caregivers, new moms with infants at home, homebound clients with disabilities, and many more. According to research, online therapy can be just as effective as traditional face-to-face sessions at the office.

I understand that the lack of resources can be a barrier to seeking quality mental health services. Depending on need and availability, I offer select clients reduced rates on a sliding scale. Please contact me to inquire about the availability of sliding scale options.

Payments are accepted via major credit cards, debit cards, Health Savings Accounts (HSA), Flexible Savings Accounts (FSA),  and Paypal.

I value your time and strive to ensure punctuality for all sessions. Late cancellations with less than 24 hours of notice or no-shows will incur a late cancellation fee of $100.

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I understand emergencies happen, so please let me know about any unforeseen circumstances that will affect your scheduled appointment. However, it's important to note that last-minute cancellations unrelated to emergencies may result in a charge. It's important to prioritize your mental wellness and treat therapy appointments like other commitments in your life. I appreciate your understanding and cooperation in honoring your therapy appointments!

Hibiscus Psychotherapy PLLC is not in-network with any insurance companies. If you have out-of-network benefits, I can furnish you with an itemized invoice known as a "superbill." This document can be submitted to your insurance company for possible reimbursement once your deductible has been met, subject to the terms of your plan. Please note that session fees are due upfront at your appointment, and I cannot guarantee that your insurance company will reimburse you. You can use your or your spouse’s HSA or FSA card (if you have one) to pay for your sessions as part of your medical expenses. You—and only you—manage communications with your insurance company. 

All new clients paying out-of-pocket will receive a Good Faith Estimate per the new No Surprise Act.

If your health insurance has out-of-network coverage, a percentage of the fee may be reimbursed directly to you by your insurance provider. With the ever-changing laws regarding coverage of mental health services, you may have more insurance coverage for out-of-network benefits than you realize. Every plan is different, so please call your insurance company before scheduling to find out your out-of-network benefits, such as your annual out-of-network deductible, out-of-pocket maximum, reimbursement for video/phone appointments, information and documentation needed to file a claim, etc. The most common CPT (procedure) codes are:

• Initial evaluation - 90791
• Individual follow-up session - 90837
• Couples or family session - 90847

In my practice, I choose not to take insurance due to the following factors:

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Protecting your privacy. By minimizing the involvement of insurance companies, we prioritize the confidentiality of your therapy. Insurance providers often require mental illness diagnoses, impacting various aspects of your personal and professional life, such as custody, adoption, insurance coverage, and employment opportunities. Additionally, insurance companies might ask therapists to share personal information or provide justification for additional sessions. 

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Opting for self-pay, which doesn't involve insurance, guarantees confidentiality and enables you to maintain autonomy over your personal information and healing process.

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I can also act as an out-of-network provider if your insurance has out-of-network benefits. This means I can furnish you with a superbill that you submit to your insurance company for financial reimbursements. Please note that while a diagnosis remains necessary on the superbill for out-of-network benefits, we safeguard the independence of your healing journey by eliminating the need to justify your treatment choices.

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Expanding the scope of therapy. Insurance providers often impose diagnoses that narrow therapy's focus to address pathologies exclusively. However, many individuals seek therapy for concerns or issues that may not neatly fit into specific diagnostic categories. As an out-of-network provider, I can offer a comprehensive approach that addresses your unique needs, regardless of whether they align with traditional diagnostic criteria that warrant insurance reimbursement.

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Ensuring personalized treatment decisions. Insurance companies often dictate how long therapy should last, how often sessions occur, and what modalities we can use, which may not align with your unique therapeutic needs. By removing the influence of insurance, we can work together to determine the most effective and suitable course of treatment without external restrictions.

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Dedicated attention and high-quality care. Insurance companies demand a lot of paperwork from providers and offer lower rates for their work. As a result, therapists may experience burnout. As an out-of-network provider, I can prioritize your needs and deliver focused, attentive care by dedicating more time and energy to your well-being.

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Our decision to remain out-of-network is rooted in our commitment to delivering the highest quality care. We prioritize providing a personalized therapeutic experience that is tailored specifically for you.

Therapy is more than just rehashing your problems and pain. In therapy you will work on your goals for personal growth and relationship healing in a safe, independent space. The trust, and the “fit” with the therapist are two of the most important factors that determine therapy effectiveness. I encourage you to speak with a few therapists to connect with the one that is the best fit for you.

I often hear the notion that therapists are merely emotional dumpsters where people unload their problems. However, in my practice, therapy delves so much deeper than simply listening to complaints. I adopt a proactive approach to guide my clients toward living the lives they truly desire.

We all yearn for fulfilling intimate relationships, but we don’t always know how to cope with relational challenges. I love helping individuals and couples navigate their relationship struggles and cultivate profound and intimate bonds. I am honored and privileged to help my clients explore their life experiences and gain insights. I find profound meaning in facilitating change and growth in my clients.

I have conversations with people, and I do something mindful in nature. My favorite hobby is snorkeling!