FAQS

How does Telehealth work?
1. Just like in person services, you will make an appointment with me, and we’ll talk over video, phone, or text using my private platform. You will be billed after session is completed. If you’re not ready for a video chat or phone call, we can set up a messaging package in which you can write to me on your own time and receive at least one reply from me per day.
What if I want in person services?
1. If you'd like in person services, select the "General Washington Executive Center Office" when scheduling. My office is located in the General Washington Executive Center in Fredericksburg, VA across the street from Carl's. Note that I do require an initial consultation via Telehealth before I will proceed with face-to-face services.
I thought behavior analysts only work with kids with autism. Can you work with people without ASD?
1. While the vast majority of behavior analysts work with children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), our skillset is applicable to all behavior. For individuals without ASD, I will more than likely employ acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT).
What is ACT?
1. ACT is a “behavioral talk therapy” that is focused on honoring your values in addition to finding actionable steps for behavior change. Think of your issue as holding onto a rope that is constantly getting pulled back as you put all your effort into fighting. Clearly, that’s not working, so what’s the next best thing? Drop the rope! ACT follows a similar thought process; we’ll find what isn’t working and find behaviors that do.
How does your messaging service work?
1. You and I will message back and forth using Signal or Simple Practice’s messaging service Monday through Thursday. You’ll have the chance to craft your message to me and I will then respond with suggestions for you to implement. I will typically take 45 mins to an hour to respond, so you’ll get the same level of attention as you would if we were “meeting” via phone or video.
I want to try messaging you, but will I be stuck with messaging if I want to try phone or video?
1. Of course not! For many people, messaging can help to ease anxiety around working with a mental health professional. I’m more than happy to change modalities as you see fit.
My last therapist used Skype or FaceTime. Why don’t you?
1. As much as I love FaceTime and Skype, they are not HIPAA compliant.
Are your Telehealth services legal, secure, and HIPAA compliant?
1. Yes. I use Simple Practice for all Telehealth, billing, and paperwork management. Simple Practice is fully HIPAA complaint, so all interactions will be and remain private.
What happens if there are technical issues?
1. Unfortunately, tech issues do arise from time to time. I will do everything possible to help you resolve any issues that may arise, but the Simple Practice IT team is just a message away on both the iOS app and desktop platforms.
What is yoga therapy?
1. Yoga therapy is the application of yogic principles (movement, meditation, breathwork, and a healthy lifestyle) to address physical, psychological, and spiritual concerns. Depending on your situation, I may suggest poses to strengthen certain muscles or we may look at lifestyle factors that are influencing you. Note that my BCBA credential is unrelated to and does not inform my practice of yoga therapy.
Do you accept insurance?
1. Yes! At the time of this writing, I am waiting for my contract for Sentra for ABA and I am an out of network provider for United Healthcare. I also accept the DD Waiver for therapeutic consultation services as well as private pay. If you choose to use your out of network benefits for United Healthcare, you will pay my full rate upfront and then I will file a claim with United Healthcare for you to be reimbursed as if you used insurance.
I’ve never seen a mental health professional before. Will Telehealth work for me?
1. That’s perfectly ok! Telehealth is an excellent way to start working with a mental health professional in a way that can feel much safer than going to a physical office and allows you more flexibility in how we meet and work together.
Do you work with LGBT+ individuals?
1. Yes, I work with LGBT+ children, teenagers, and adults. Currently, our work will focus on identifying and engaging in gender affirming behaviors. For example, we may discuss ways to help you feel more masculine or feminine. Currently, I can’t provide letters for surgery, HRT, or a diagnosis of gender dysphoria.
Can I quit services at any time?
1. Yes.
When are you available for sessions?
1. I am available Monday through Thursday from 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM. I do have a couple of openings on Fridays on an “as needed” basis, so message me if this is a need for you.
Can I remain anonymous while working with you?
1. As a licensed behavior analyst, supervisee in clinical social work, and certified yoga therapist, I can’t work with anyone anonymously. However, I am required to adhere to HIPAA at all times and keep all interactions and correspondence secure. I can only break confidentiality if you give me explicit permission to do so or I feel that you are a danger to yourself or others.
What kind of technology will I need to work with you?
1. For video sessions, you will need a computer or smart phone with a camera capable of transmitting video. If you just want services via messaging, any device with an internet connection and browser application will suffice.
That all sounds great! How do I get started?
1. Navigate to “Book Now” and book a free 30-minute consultation with me. This will be an opportunity for you to get to know me and my practice and address any questions or concerns. If we choose to move forward together, I will get you set up in Simple Practice and send you all the necessary paperwork. During our first appointment, I will ask about your goals and complete a brief assessment. If you choose to call me to discuss services and I don't answer, please leave a message and I'll get back to you ASAP.

The No Surprises Act

The No Surprises Act protects people covered under group and individual health plans from receiving surprise medical bills when they receive most emergency services, non-emergency services from out-of-network providers at in-network facilities, and services from out-of-network air ambulance service providers. It also establishes an independent dispute resolution process for payment disputes between plans and providers, and provides new dispute resolution opportunities for uninsured and self-pay individuals when they receive a medical bill that is substantially greater than the good faith estimate they get from the provider.

As of 2022, there are new protections that prevent surprise medical bills. If you have private health insurance, these new protections ban the most common types of surprise bills. If you’re uninsured or you decide not to use your health insurance for a service, under these protections, I will give you a good faith estimate of the cost of your care up front, before your visit. If you disagree with your bill, you may be able to dispute the charges.